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STARS 2025

STARS is the ultimate celebration of the incredible student spirit that thrives at UEA each year. It's a chance for us to shine a spotlight on the amazing work our students do to make our university community truly wonderful in societies and members of our staff.

We have thousands of students who take the lead in their societies, organising events, lending a helping hand, working for us and so much more. Their dedication is truly awe-inspiring. While one night may not be enough to fully recognise all their hard work, our awards night is a special occasion where we come together to honour the breadth of our student community and acknowledge the impact they have made.

Now, here's the exciting part: even if you're thinking, "I've done some great work, but I don't want to brag", hold on a second! You can actually nominate yourself too! It's an excellent opportunity to receive well-deserved recognition for your efforts, and we would love to highlight the incredible contributions you've made.

For Society Awards Nominate Here

For Student Staff Awards Nominate Here

The date of the event will be 12th May, and it will be in the LCR. Get ready for an evening filled with celebration, appreciation, and a whole lot of fun. STARS is not only about recognising outstanding achievements, but also about fostering a sense of togetherness and gratitude. We can't wait to gather as a university community and show our heartfelt appreciation for the fantastic contributions of these remarkable individuals.

Awards and Categories

Societies - Nominate

Award

Description

WHO CAN WIN
Society of the Year The award will be granted based on the society's achievements throughout the academic year, recognising exceptional contributions in providing value to its members and serving as a model for other societies.  This can be through society development, outreach, success internally or other activities.  SOCIETY
Committee of the Year This award recognises a society committee that has demonstrated outstanding leadership, organisation, and dedication throughout the year. The winning committee will have successfully delivered a range of activities, driven positive change, and effectively represented and supported their members. SOCIETY
Event of the Year This award recognises the most exceptional event hosted by a society this year. The winning event will have demonstrated outstanding planning, creativity, and execution, engaging members and making a meaningful impact on the society and wider student community. This award is open to both in-person and online events, including socials and large-scale gatherings that brought people together in an innovative and inclusive way. SOCIETY
Best New Society This award recognises the society that has made the most significant impact in its first year at UEA. The winning society will have shown outstanding growth, innovation, and engagement, creating a strong presence on campus and connecting with students in meaningful ways. Whether through their events, activities, or community building, this society has quickly become an essential part of the UEA student experience, setting a high standard for future new societies.     SOCIETY
Community Impact of the Year This award celebrates the initiative that has made the greatest positive impact on a community or cause. It looks at efforts that went beyond fundraising, focusing on how the initiative raised awareness, inspired action, and created meaningful, long-term change in the lives of those it aimed to support. SOCIETY
Campaign of the Year This award recognises a society-led campaign or project that has driven significant awareness and change within the UEA community. The focus is on the campaign’s ability to engage, rally, and mobilise students, creating a ripple effect that extends both within and outside the university. SOCIETY
Inclusivity and Accessibility Award This award recognises a society that has carried out a project, activity, or ongoing initiative that has promoted inclusivity and improved access for individuals who may face barriers to participation. This could include efforts made during liberation months, regular initiatives, or standalone actions that have worked to break down obstacles and ensure that everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, feels welcomed and supported. Please note, this award is open to all types of initiatives, not just Peer Support Groups. SOCIETY
Cultural Engagement of the Year This award celebrates the society that has demonstrated exceptional cultural engagement throughout the academic year. The winner will be recognised for their contribution to promoting culture, whether through events, activities, or initiatives that celebrate diversity, creativity, and cross-cultural understanding. Please note that you do not have to be from a cultural society to apply. This could include successful projects that raise cultural awareness, spark innovative thinking, or enhance support for diverse perspectives across the UEA campus. SOCIETY
Volunteer of the Year This award recognises an individual who has dedicated their time to helping others, regardless of their role. Whether through supporting their society or contributing to a volunteer scheme, this person has gone above and beyond to enhance the provision and experience for members and beyond. They are a vital part of their student group or volunteer network, demonstrating commitment and selflessness in their efforts to make a difference. LEADERS
Digital Engagement of the Year This award recognises the society that has made the most effective use of social media to engage and connect with members and the wider UEA student community. The winning society will demonstrate creativity, consistency in posting, and innovative ways of encouraging interaction and participation. Evidence of your social media activity is essential for consideration, so please be sure to email relevant materials to union.opportunities@uea.ac.uk by insert date here. SOCIETY
Social Media Post of the Year This award recognises the single most impactful and creative social media post made by a society during the academic year. The winning post will stand out for its ability to capture attention, inspire engagement, and effectively communicate the society’s message. Whether through clever visuals, compelling storytelling, or unique calls to action, this post has made a significant impression on the UEA community and beyond. SOCIETY
Outstanding Contribution to Sustainability This award is to recognise the society that has undertaken the most meaningful initiatives, activities, events or campaigns to act in a more sustainable way, or to promote and encourage sustainable practices. These activities and initiatives may have been undertaken by a society independently, via a society collaboration, or through external collaboration.  SOCIETY
Best Society Collaboration This award celebrates the most successful event or campaign carried out through collaboration between two or more societies. Whether an online campaign or an in-person event, such as a ball or celebration, the collaboration should have effectively engaged members from multiple societies and created a positive impact for all involved. The winning initiative will demonstrate creativity, teamwork, and a strong sense of community across different student groups. SOCIETY
National Recognition Award This award celebrates the society or student group that has achieved outstanding success on a national level. Whether through winning a prestigious competition, placing highly in national rankings, or making a significant impact on a larger stage, this award recognises excellence beyond the local or regional level. The recipient will have demonstrated exceptional skill, teamwork, and determination, bringing pride to UEA through their national achievements. SOCIETY
Peer Support Group of the Year This award honours a peer support group that has provided exceptional assistance, guidance, and a sense of community to its members. The winning group should have demonstrated a commitment to supporting student wellness, promoting inclusivity, and offering valuable resources or services. PEER SUPPORT GROUPS
Student Campaigner of the Year This award acknowledges an individual who has shown remarkable dedication and effectiveness in campaigning for important causes or issues within the UEA community or beyond. The recipient should have demonstrated leadership, creativity, and a tangible impact through their campaigning efforts. INDIVIDUAL
Rising Star Award The Rising Star Awards recognise individuals who have shown exceptional potential and achievement within their societies, as convenors, part-time officers, or through UEASU student-led initiatives. These individuals stand out for their talent, dedication, and leadership, positioning them as future influencers within the UEA community. INDIVIDUAL
Student Transformation Award This award honors an individual who has undergone a significant personal transformation during their time at UEA. Whether overcoming challenges, achieving remarkable growth, or inspiring others, the recipient exemplifies the transformative power of higher education. INDIVIDUAL

 

Student STAFF - Nominate

Outstanding Office Student Staff of the Year awards This award recognises outstanding student staff members who have provided exceptional service and support within administrative roles in the Students' Union office. Recipients should demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and a commitment to excellence in their duties.
Outstanding Venues/Bars Student Staff of the Year This award celebrates outstanding student staff members who have demonstrated excellence in other Students' Union venues. Recipients exhibit efficiency, initiative, and a positive impact on the smooth functioning of operations.
Outstanding Team Leader of the Year This award recognises exceptional team leaders who have demonstrated effective leadership, communication, and management skills in guiding their team to success. Recipients inspire and motivate their team members, creating a positive and productive working environment.
The UEA(SU) Student Staff Member of the Year  This award acknowledges a staff member of the UEA Students' Union who have gone above and beyond in their role, making a significant and positive impact on the student experience. Recipients demonstrate dedication, innovation, and a commitment to serving the UEA community.
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