Edge Hill University will award honorary doctorates to seven individuals whose achievements have transformed business, championed equality, advanced justice, supported mental health, and inspired communities. Over 4,000 students will celebrate their academic achievements alongside these inspirational leaders during graduation ceremonies on the Ormskirk campus from July 20 to 24.
Honorary Awards Reflect University's Values
The honorary awards recognize exceptional contributions to society and celebrate individuals whose values closely reflect Edge Hill University’s commitment to opportunity, inclusion, innovation, and making a positive difference. This year’s recipients include entrepreneurs, a business leader, a mental health campaigner, an anti-racism advocate, a constitutional law expert, and a former world boxing champion.
Entrepreneurs Recognized for Sportswear Success
Daniel Yuen and Edge Hill alumnus Kieran Riddell-Austin, founders of Montirex, are recognized as inspiring entrepreneurs for building one of the UK’s fastest-growing sportswear brands. Founded in Liverpool in 2019, Montirex has experienced remarkable growth through its innovative approach to activewear and strong customer connections, creating employment opportunities while inspiring young entrepreneurs across the region and beyond.
Business Leader Honored for Regional Economic Impact
Max Steinberg CBE is recognized for his outstanding leadership and lasting contribution to business, regeneration, and economic growth across the Liverpool City Region. Throughout a distinguished career, Steinberg has played a pivotal role in shaping economic development, helping attract major investment, create jobs, and strengthen the region’s reputation nationally and internationally, leaving a lasting legacy across the North West.
Mental Health Campaigner Transforms Conversations
Angela Samata, a psychotherapist, broadcaster, and mental health campaigner, is recognized for transforming conversations around suicide prevention and emotional wellbeing after the death of her husband. Following the loss of her husband Mark to suicide, Samata has become one of the UK’s leading voices on suicide prevention and mental health awareness. She has dedicated her career to breaking down stigma, serving on national advisory groups, co-founding wellbeing initiatives, and encouraging open conversations. She has previously shared her experiences with the Edge Hill community through the University’s Edge Ahead podcast.
Anti-Racism Advocate Honored for Dedication
Gee Walker MBE, founder and patron of the Anthony Walker Foundation, is recognized for her dedication to tackling racism, promoting equality, and supporting communities. Walker founded the foundation following the racially motivated murder of her son Anthony in 2005. Driven by a determination that no other family should experience such tragedy, she has devoted more than two decades to promoting equality, challenging racism, and empowering young people. Her compassion, leadership, and commitment have been recognized through numerous national honors, including an MBE, the Pride of Britain Award, and the Prime Minister’s Point of Light Award.
Academic Leader Strengthens International Collaboration
Professor Iurii Barabash, a constitutional law expert and academic leader, is recognized for strengthening international collaboration and Edge Hill University’s partnership with Ukraine. Barabash is Vice-Rector of Yaroslav Mudryi National Law University in Kharkiv and, since 2025, a Judge of the Constitutional Court of Ukraine. His academic leadership has been instrumental in developing the partnership between Edge Hill University and Yaroslav Mudryi National Law University, established through the Universities UK Ukraine Twinning initiative. The collaboration has supported academic exchanges, joint research, publications, and the development of a shared postgraduate programme, strengthening international cooperation during an exceptionally challenging period for Ukraine.
Boxing Champion Championed Mental Wellbeing
Tony Bellew, former world boxing champion, broadcaster, and mental health advocate, is recognized for championing mental wellbeing and supporting communities beyond sport. Since retiring from professional sport, Bellew has become a passionate advocate for mental health, using his platform to encourage people to speak openly about mental health. Through community initiatives, charitable work, and his appearance on Edge Hill University’s Edge Ahead podcast, he has inspired others to seek support and help break down the stigma surrounding mental wellbeing.
University Official Comments on Honorary Awards
Professor Kurt Allman, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Business Development and External Engagement) at Edge Hill University, said: “Graduation is the highlight of our academic calendar, a momentous occasion to honour the talent and resilience of our students. We are delighted to welcome such remarkable individuals whose achievements and values resonate with Edge Hill’s own mission. It is our hope that their stories will inspire our new graduates to pursue their own ambitions with both courage and conviction.”
Previous recipients of Edge Hill University’s honorary doctorates include singer-songwriter Rebecca Ferguson, TV presenter and former professional footballer Chelsea Grimes, former professional goalkeeper Chris Kirkland, BBC journalist Clive Myrie, and comedian Michael Pennington, better known as Johnny Vegas.
