Following a nomination from the Faculty of Humanities, MA Film Studies student Cemal Alomar received the prestigious Distinguished Achievement medal at his graduation ceremony this week.

To be considered for the Award, the nominee must be an outstanding postgraduate student on a taught programme who has either excelled in a significant manner, coupled excellent academic achievement with a major external activity, or be inspirational through having overcome major issues.

Cemal is a scholar and activist who has overcome major difficulties in his life and is inspired by his experiences as a former political prisoner. During his time as a PGT student, he has developed as a reflexive and critically engaged practitioner who works across both fiction and non-fiction filmmaking. He has also made a pioneering contribution to the University’s social responsibility committees and has been commended for his exceptional contribution to life at the University.

Cemal said: "I received this award after losing my Bachelor's studies 12 years ago due to detention, siege, and displacement in Syria. It is a reminder for me and for everyone that people can overcome oppression and achieve the impossible, just like I did.

“This was only possible due to the support I received from the University throughout my whole journey. I was honoured to receive a humanitarian scholarship which helped me achieve my dream in completing Film Studies. I came as a grain of wheat, nurtured by knowledge, support, and guidance from great professors and colleagues and today, I leave as a thriving field of love and hope that will never perish."