University alumna given award by Princess Royal

Maddison Walker got an MBA from the University of Wolverhampton

Princess Anne has awarded a Patron's Award to a university graduate in recognition of her journey through adult education.

The Princess Royal gave Maddison Walker, alumna of the University of Wolverhampton, the accolade at the Get the Nation Learning awards - which celebrates adult learning, and people and organisations who get the nation learning.

Ms Walker decided to go to the university in 2022 after going straight into work following her GCSEs, and building her way up in consultancy for several years.

While solo parenting, she completed a senior leader apprenticeship, a Level 7 Masters qualification, achieving 89% in her dissertation. She has since launched her own company.

Ms Walker said she was "deeply honoured" to get the award.

"My journey began with the simple goal to gain a qualification to support the work I loved," she said.

'Power to unlock potential'

"As a mum who left school with just GCSEs, I never imagined I could achieve an MBA.

"The Level 7 apprenticeship gave me that opportunity, even through some incredibly tough challenges... a challenging workload, and balancing personal and professional pressures."

She added the MBA had transformed her career, confidence and resilience.

"Today, I run my own business, enabling established companies to grow and scale, see my son thrive and sit on the board of trustees for West Midlands Women's Aid.

Adult learning and apprenticeships truly have the power to unlock potential, change lives, and open doors we never thought possible."

Prof Ebrahim Adia, vice chancellor of the university, said the award was much deserved.

"Her achievements are an inspiration to many, and her journey is an example of how our university can not only create opportunities but also transform futures," he said.

"We all look forward to watching Maddison's continued growth and to her making an impact and lasting difference."