Outstanding student talent recognised with five years of funding

An alumni award recognising outstanding achievement in the Built Environment has supported 15 students on its 5th anniversary.

Northumbria alumnus and honorary graduate Adam Serfontein established the Transformation and Innovation award recognising students who 'go the extra mile' in the surveying field and strengthening their career prospects.

The former Deputy Chair of the Board of Governors and Estate Management graduate said: “Any university can only add value to those who embrace the opportunity and for this reason I have been keen for the last five years to help acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of those who did just that.

“Northumbria University is a great place and continues to move from strength to strength. It is very special to see how these prizes add value to people’s lives, and the community, in its broadest sense. My two children Jennie and Dan are both Northumbria alumni, and it continues to be a very important influence in our lives. I am forever in awe of the transformational effects our University has in many people’s lives.”

The prize recognises students who have shown initiative, developed industry networks and engaged in extracurricular activities. It is presented annually to celebrate the accomplishments of graduating students from three course disciplines; Real Estate, Quantity Surveying and Building surveying.

2021 prize winner Barney Johnson, BA (Hons) Quantity Surveying, said: “After reading about the work Adam has secured and undertaken in this incredible city as a part of Hanro and NE1, it makes me even more honoured to receive this award. I think that the fact my effort has been recognised with the award is why I am so proud to receive it. It will certainly inspire me whilst pursuing future endeavours, in the industry or in my personal life.”

Adam has rewarded 15 students over the past five years, and has motivated many more because of his success, work ethic and personal links with Northumbria University. Find out how you can support Northumbria students here.