Leading professionals and teams from across the UK’s further and higher education sector have been recognised at the 2026 NASMA Awards, celebrating outstanding achievements in student money advice, support services, and innovation.
The ceremony, sponsored by Save the Student, brought together sector experts and practitioners to honour those making a significant difference to students’ financial wellbeing. Save the Student was representative at the event by Tom Allingham, with Tom also contributing as part of the judging panel alongside David Marshall, Gemma Linsley of the JS Group, and Kellie McAlonan and Einir England from the NASMA Board.
Judges were praised for their careful consideration of a strong field of nominations. Outgoing NASMA Chair, Kellie McAlonan, acknowledged that selecting winners had been particularly challenging this year, given the high standard and diversity of submissions.
A total of five awards were presented, including the Andrew Perry Memorial Award for Fund Administrator of the Year, Student Money Adviser of the Year, Innovative Project, Team of the Year, and the highly anticipated Region of the Year.
Organisers also congratulated all shortlisted nominees, highlighting that reaching the final stage was a significant achievement in itself.
Amal Ahmed Wins Andrew Perry Memorial Award
The first award of the evening, the Andrew Perry Memorial Award for Fund Administrator of the Year, was presented to Amal Ahmed of the University of West London.
The award, renamed in memory of Andrew Perry following his passing in 2022, honours his decades-long contribution to student support. Andrew spent nearly 30 years at the University of Birmingham, where he led the Student Support Fund while also playing a key role within NASMA’s Hardship Funds Committee.
Judges praised Ahmed’s resilience during a challenging period, as well as the strong positive feedback from students included in the nomination.
Sophia Bowen Named Student Money Adviser of the Year
The highly competitive Student Money Adviser of the Year award was awarded to Sophia Bowen, also from the University of West London.
Described as one of the most difficult categories to judge, the panel highlighted Bowen’s embodiment of NASMA’s values, including a strong student-focused approach, creativity, and persistence. Her nomination showcased impactful testimonials demonstrating the difference her work has made to students.
Leeds Trinity University Recognised for Innovative Project
The Innovative Project Award went to the Money Advice Team at Leeds Trinity University.
Judges commended the team for their proactive and research-driven approach, including securing funding to investigate key issues affecting students. Their project also created paid research opportunities for students, with the potential to influence practice across the sector in the coming years.
University of Bradford Team Wins Team of the Year
The Team of the Year Award was presented to the Student Life Team at the University of Bradford.
Described as one of the strongest nominations seen by the judging panel, the team was recognised for its strategic focus, deep understanding of student needs, and commitment to a trauma-informed approach. Judges highlighted the team’s collaborative ethos and ability to deliver impactful support despite limited resources.
University of Chester Receives Highly Commended Award
In addition to the main categories, a Highly Commended Award was presented to Your Money Finance Support at the University of Chester.
The team was recognised for building a new student money advice service from the ground up. Judges noted their strategic approach to overcoming barriers and their success in delivering meaningful outcomes in a relatively short time.
Region of the Year: London & South East Region
The final award of the evening, Region of the Year, is selected by the NASMA Office Team and celebrates the achievements of regional groups across the organisation. The winner was announced by Jack Bourton, Head of Operations for NASMA, who said ‘’ Each year it’s really challenging to select one region that stands out, and this year was no exception, however huge congratulations to the members from the LASER region for all their hard work’’
The 2026 NASMA Awards highlighted the dedication, innovation, and impact of individuals and teams working to support students in an increasingly complex financial landscape. With strong competition across all categories, this year’s winners reflect the sector’s continued commitment to ensuring students receive the guidance and support they need to succeed.
Outgoing NASMA Chair, Kellie McAlonan, said:
“As we celebrate 30 years of NASMA, our 2026 award winners represent the very best of our community – showcasing innovation, dedication and an unwavering commitment to students.”
