It is with immense gratitude and a profound sense of responsibility that I am honoured with the Vice-Chancellor’s Social Impact Award in the Innovation category. As the sole winner in this category for 2024, this recognition is not merely a reflection of my personal journey but a testament to the collective efforts and support of many incredible mentors, peers, leaders, teachers, close friends, colleagues, my research supervisor, and my family. Without their unwavering support and guidance, I would not have reached this point, and for that, I am forever grateful.
awarded the Innovation Award in the 2024 Vice-Chancellor’s Social Impact Awards
My journey in social impact began with a personal challenge—overcoming severe social
anxiety. After joining a public speaking organisation as an undergraduate student at UCLA, I transformed my fear into a tool for empowerment, not just for myself but for others facing similar battles. This transformation fuelled my commitment to create a new mental health organisation at UCLA, where we significantly improved mental health awareness and support for over 300 university students and over 5,000 high school students.
During my undergraduate studies, I also had the privilege of serving in several impactful roles. As a Certified Peer Coach and Mentor, I guided students through their personal and academic challenges, fostering an environment of growth and resilience. Additionally, I worked as a volunteer crisis counsellor for the Suicide Prevention Crisis Line, providing essential support to over 450 individuals across the US. I also took on the role of a Client Navigator, where I facilitated free health screenings for underserved and uninsured individuals in Los Angeles, helping to bridge significant gaps in healthcare access. Each of these roles reinforced my belief in the power of empathy and proactive support in building stronger communities.
Moving to Cambridge for my Masters, I continued this mission as the Postgraduate Welfare Officer at St Catharine’s College and as the Vice Chair of the International Students’ Campaign. Here, I launched a new peer-support programme to support the well-being of students and advocated for policy improvements that have begun to shape a more inclusive and supportive environment for international students. Additionally, my role as a Mental Health Foundation Young Leader in the UK has enabled me to contribute to de-stigmatising youth mental health on a national scale through the co-development of new psychoeducational programmes.
The cumulative impact of these initiatives is not just in the numbers, but in the stories of
individuals who now feel a little less alone, a bit more empowered, and part of a community that cares not only about their own well-being and success but also about the well-being and success of others. Whether it was improving healthcare literacy and access for the underserved and uninsured community in Los Angeles, or expanding mental health education and access in the UK, each effort has been a step towards a more empathetic and inclusive society.
As I accept this award, I am reminded of the responsibility it entails—to continue advocating, supporting, and leading with empathy. I am immensely thankful for this recognition and for the opportunity to highlight the importance of mental health, community support, and inclusivity in our global society.
ceremony
You can connect with William on Linkedin to learn more about his work.