Over 4,000 students will celebrate their own academic achievements alongside these inspirational leaders in their fields during a week of graduation ceremonies on the Ormskirk campus from 20-24 July.
The honorary awards recognise exceptional contributions to society and celebrate individuals whose values closely reflect the University’s commitment to opportunity, inclusion, innovation and making a positive difference.
This year’s recipients are:
- Daniel Yuen and Edge Hill alumnus Kieran Riddell-Austin, founders of Montirex, recognised as inspiring entrepreneurs for building one of the UK’s fastest-growing sportswear brands.
- Max Steinberg CBE, recognised for his outstanding leadership and lasting contribution to business, regeneration and economic growth across the Liverpool City Region
- Angela Samata, psychotherapist, broadcaster and mental health campaigner, for transforming conversations around suicide prevention and emotional wellbeing after the death of her husband.
- Gee Walker MBE, founder and patron of the Anthony Walker Foundation, recognised for her dedication to tackling racism, promoting equality and supporting communities.
- Professor Iurii Barabash, constitutional law expert and academic leader, for strengthening international collaboration and Edge Hill University’s partnership with Ukraine.
- Tony Bellew, former world boxing champion, broadcaster and mental health advocate, recognised for championing mental wellbeing and supporting communities beyond sport.
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.”
Daniel Yuen and Edge Hill alumnus Kieran Riddell-Austin
Daniel and Kieran have built Montirex from a start-up business into one of the UK’s fastest-growing sportswear brands.
Founded in Liverpool in 2019, the company has experienced remarkable growth through its innovative approach to activewear and strong connection with customers, creating employment opportunities while inspiring young entrepreneurs across the region and beyond.
Max Steinberg CBE
Max Steinberg CBE has played a pivotal role in shaping the economic development of the Liverpool City Region throughout a distinguished career spanning business, regeneration and civic leadership.
His contribution has helped attract major investment, create jobs and strengthen the region’s reputation nationally and internationally, leaving a lasting legacy across the North West.
Angela Samata
Following the loss of her husband Mark to suicide, Angela Samata has become one of the UK’s leading voices on suicide prevention and mental health awareness.
A psychotherapist, broadcaster and campaigner, Angela has dedicated her career to breaking down stigma around mental health, serving on national advisory groups, co-founding wellbeing initiatives and encouraging people to have open conversations about their emotional wellbeing.
She has previously shared her experiences with the Edge Hill community through the University’s Edge Ahead podcast and continues to inspire audiences across the country through her public speaking and campaigning.
Gee Walker MBE
Gee Walker founded the Anthony Walker 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 to building stronger communities have been recognised through numerous national honours, including an MBE, the Pride of Britain Award and the Prime Minister’s Point of Light Award.
Professor Iurii Barabash
Professor Iurii Barabash is an internationally recognised expert in constitutional law, 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.
Tony Bellew
Former world boxing champion Tony Bellew has become a passionate advocate for mental health since retiring from professional sport.
Alongside his successful boxing career and work as a broadcaster and actor, Tony has used 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.
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.
Find out more about Edge Hill’s honorary awards.
July 9, 2026
