What do translating biodiversity into new music in Colombia and improving sustainability in undergraduate laboratory practical classes, have in common? They’ve both won a Making a Difference Award!

Now in its eighth year, our Making a Difference Awards are back for 2023, and we are ready to recognise and celebrate yet more positive impact from our staff, students, alumni and local communities.

Our commitment to social responsibility captures our unique Manchester spirit and heritage as England’s first civic university and we hope that you can share some ways in which you’re part of this. Do you know someone who’s making a difference to society or the environment? Then why not use the Awards as a perfect opportunity to recognise their hard work and dedication?

We have 8 categories to highlight the various ways our University communities are making positive impact.  

All shortlisted nominees will be invited to a high-profile awards ceremony in May 2023 to receive their Award and celebrate their commitment and dedication. The ceremony offers a platform for entrants to raise awareness of their work and celebrate their impressive achievements.

Professor Nalin Thakkar, Vice-President for Social Responsibility said: “It’s incredible how many of our staff, students, alumni and members of our local communities are making a huge difference. Through the Making a Difference Awards, we want to recognise and celebrate all their hard work. I would encourage anyone who is making a positive contribution to society to enter our Awards and take the opportunity to highlight the significant impact their work is having, and provide them with a platform to showcase their hard work and commitment. I would also encourage people to nominate colleagues and students who they feel are making a real difference to the lives of others.”

Take a look at our previous winners and highly commended recipients to see how receiving a Making a Difference Award has given them a boost to continue tackling issues they feel passionate about, shone a spotlight on the impact of their work and inspired further funding opportunities.

Important Information:

• Enter via the social responsibility website.
• Deadline for entries is 16 January 2023.
• Candidates can self-nominate or be nominated by a third party.
• Individuals or teams can enter. 
• For more information, visit the Making a Difference Awards webpage
• If you do not have access to an online entry form please email socialresponsibility@manchester.ac.uk or telephone 0161-306-3044