Leeds graduate honoured at prestigious British Council Alumni Awards

A former BA Communications and Media Studies graduate was among a distinguished group of students recognised at a prestigious awards ceremony.  

Somya Mehta, who graduated from Leeds in 2019, was selected as a finalist in the British Council Alumni Awards. 

The awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of UK alumni around the world and recognise leaders in their fields who have used their experience of studying at a UK university to make a positive contribution to their communities, industries and countries. 

Somya was nominated in the category of Culture & Creativity which recognises alumni who have carved out a careers for themselves in arts and culture.  

The ceremony took place in Dubai on May 14, and although Somya missed out on winning her category, she was able to celebrate the huge achievement of representing her country. 

Somya, who now works as a senior journalist for the United Arab Emirates oldest daily newspaper, said: “Being selected as the UAE Finalist for the British Council Alumni Awards 2025 in the Culture and Creativity category marks a pivotal moment in my journey — one that’s made my family and my colleagues incredibly proud.  

“This recognition connects the dots between where I started, how far I’ve come, and where I hope to go next — and for that, I’m incredibly grateful to University of Leeds and the British Council. 

 

“The British Council has long been a driving force in ensuring that the university experience doesn’t end at graduation — but evolves into a lifelong thread of connection, community, and shared purpose. From global alumni events to local initiatives, it’s always championed the idea that our journeys as students don’t stop when we leave campus.”

Looking ahead, Somya said she wishes to continue elevating underrepresented stories from the region onto global platforms and expand her impact in the media industry through meaningful journalism. 

She added: “Being part of this platform gives me the momentum to go even further — to keep using my voice and platform to create meaningful impact in society.”