United Colleges Group’s (UCG) students and staff have been shortlisted for an array of prestigious London awards, recognising excellence, leadership and innovation across the capital.
At the upcoming West London Business Awards 2026, three members of the UCG community have been named as finalists:
Talvin McClunie, Carpentry Apprentice at the College of North West London (CNWL) an employee of the Size Group, is a finalist in the Apprentice of the Year (16–29) category. Talvin previously won a student award at CNWL last year, reflecting his continued dedication to his craft and professional growth.
Nadia El Atrash, UCG’s Interim Head of Human Resources, who was a finalist at the recent Investors in People® Awards, has been shortlisted for the West London Hero Award, recognising her leadership and contributions to workplace culture.
Beheshta Bakhtari, UCG’s Student Union President, is a finalist in the Teenpreneur of the Year category, celebrating her entrepreneurial spirit and advocacy for student empowerment.
These recognitions come as part of a highly competitive judging process, which saw more than 70 businesses and individuals shortlisted across multiple sectors - from manufacturing to advanced computing - reflecting the diversity and innovation that define the West London economy.
The winners will be announced at the Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony on Friday, February, 27, 2026, held at the iconic Allianz Stadium (formerly Twickenham Stadium).
Commenting on this year’s awards, Andrew Dakers, CEO of West London Business and judging panel member, said: “This marks the thirteenth year of the West London Business Awards, and I am proud that the calibre of entries and shortlisted businesses and entrepreneurs goes from strength to strength.
“The diversity and creativity showcased this year demonstrate the dynamism of our local economy. Our Gala Awards ceremony on 27 February will once again be a celebration of talent and entrepreneurial drive across West London.”
United Colleges Group is also delighted to announce that City of Westminster College has been shortlisted for two categories at the London Eco Champion Awards: Performing & Production Arts students in the Junior Heroes category, while the college has been named as a finalist in the Super Schools category.
Earlier this year, CWC’s Performing & Production Arts students completed a project on how to create low impact, environmentally friendly theatre. Learners worked with a portable lighting rig, recycled materials, and rechargeable batteries as part of taking part in the annual UK-wide, National Theatre Connections Festival.
And the college’s efforts after being crowned Planet Earth Games Further Education winners for 2025 have been recognised in the Super Schools shortlist.
These nominations are further recognition of the college group’s dedication to environmental sustainability which included signing up to the Camden Breathing Better Charter this year.
The London Eco Champion Awards honour individuals and organisations driving real environmental impact across the capital ─ from community gardening initiatives to net-zero business strategies.
Stephen Davis, CEO and Group Principal, United Colleges Group, said: “Our students and colleagues have demonstrated exceptional dedication and talent by being named finalists at both the West London Business Awards and the London Eco Champion Awards.
“It underscores our mission to foster not only academic and professional excellence but also civic responsibility and entrepreneurial leadership. We wish all our finalists the very best of luck at the ceremonies."