The British Council and the British Embassy in Riyadh have announced the names of nine finalists for the Study UK Alumni Awards 2019 in Saudi Arabia. The finalists were selected in view of their outstanding achievements as business professionals, entrepreneurs and community leaders, and for contributions to strengthening collaborative ties between the UK and Saudi Arabia. Three winners will be announced from among the finalists at a ceremony to be hosted by the British ambassador in Riyadh on March 11. The prestigious international award celebrates UK higher education and the achievements of UK alumni all over the world. Now in its fifth year globally and its fourth in the Kingdom, the award received more than 1,200 applications from international UK alumni in a record 120 countries, representing more than 140 UK higher education institutions across the UK. The finalists of the Professional Achievement Award, which recognizes alumni who have distinguished themselves through exemplary leadership in their professional field, are: Prof. Faris Alenzi, a graduate of Imperial College London and a passionate educator, researcher and founder of charities. Dr. Fahad Alnaim, a graduate of University of Manchester and Brunel University who champions special needs education . Dr. Waleed Alsalem, a graduate of Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine and CEO of National Health Laboratory and Volunteer. The finalists of the Social Impact Award, which acknowledges alumni who have made an exceptional contribution to creating positive social change, are: Dr. Taghreed Alsaraj, a graduate of University College London who is a writer, consultant, trainer with a focus on language learning. Dr. Jouharah Abalkhail, a graduate of University of Hull, who is a researcher, trainer and leader. Dr. Shaihana Almatrrouk, a graduate of University of Manchester, who is an influenza expert and international trainer. The finalists of the Entrepreneurial Award, which highlights alumni who have played a leading role in innovation, are: Dr. Mazin Alzaidi, a graduate of University of Warwick and director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Osamah Alawwam, a graduate of London Metropolitan University who is an international businessman and Master Coffee roaster. Mai Alathel, a graduate of University of Arts, London, and creative director and cultural leader British Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Simon Collis said: "I am delighted to announce the finalists for The Study UK Alumni Awards 2019, which is in its fourth year in Saudi Arabia. This award honors the achievements of outstanding Saudi women and men who studied at British universities and are now using their UK education to make a positive impact toward realizing their nation's vision. My congratulations to all our finalists in the Professional Achievement Award; Entrepreneurial Award and Social Impact Award categories." Amir Ramzan, director of the British Council in Saudi Arabia, said: "The Study UK Alumni Awards provide a platform for highlighting and showcasing wonderful local talent with a UK Education. Their stories are varied and inspirational and allow for us to appreciate the vibrant society of their country and their contributions to Saudi Arabia." — SG
