UHI Moray Student of the Year 2026

UHI Moray have selected Hairdressing student Katie Little their 2026 Student of the Year. A number of applications were received this year, and the panels decision was really difficult. Katies story was however, impactful and demonstrated a journey of courage, selflessness and leadership.

Katie is an inspiring role model because she shows that leadership does not always have to be loud.  Her leadership is rooted in kindness, lived experience, determination and a genuine desire to help others.  She has taken her own challenges and used them to make a positive difference for students who may be facing similar barriers. 

Katie started at UHI Moray in 2017 to study Social Sciences and progressed to HNC level, Covid led her to change direction and pursue hairdressing.  Katie would be the first to acknowledge that her educational journey has not always been straightforward.  She has experienced anxiety and, during her school years, struggled significantly with attendance as a result.  For that reason, her decision to come to college, engage fully, and grow in confidence was a major achievement in itself. 

The reason for nominating Katie is her exceptional contribution to the development of the Promise Group at UHI Moray. The Promise Group established in 2025 brings students together to help shape a positive student experience. The group focuses on improving engagement, transitions into college and ongoing support for students who may face additional challenges while studying. 

The Promise Group is particularly focused on supporting care experienced students, student carers and estranged students. 

Katie joined the steering group in January 2025 and quickly became an important voice within the group in shaping its purpose, identity and direction.  Her ideas helped turn the initial concept into a fully formed group designed to support Care Experienced students, Student Carers and Estranged Students. 

Katie was the driving force behind the development of marketing to promote the Promise Group and highlight the services and support available to students.  Her own words about her own personal experiences were included , giving it authenticity and making it more meaningful for the students it was designed to reach.  Rather than simply producing information about support, Katie helped create something that speaks directly to students from a place of lived experience, empathy and understanding. 

Katie’s creativity and initiative were also central to the development of a film produced by the Promise Group in collaboration with Wildbird Productions.  The aim of the film was to promote the group and encourage pupils in Moray schools, particularly those who may face additional barriers, to consider college as a positive and achievable next step. 

The initial vision for the film came from Katie and was discussed and agreed with the wider group. She supported and directed the other students involved, helping them feel comfortable and included, while ensuring the film reflected the message and values of the Promise Group.  All the while, struggling with her own confidence in her ability to be involved.  Her approach was calm, encouraging and thoughtful, and she helped create an environment where others could contribute meaningfully. 

The finished film was premiered at Moray Council Chambers on Care Day in February.  This was a significant achievement, not only for the Promise Group, but for Katie personally.  It demonstrated her ability to take an idea, develop it collaboratively, and help turn it into something that speaks to pupils, students, staff and the wider community. 

Katie’s contribution has had a clear impact.  She has helped give a voice to students who may not always feel heard.  She has helped create practical resources that will support others.  She has contributed to a group that is improving awareness, visibility and support for Care Experienced students, Student Carers and Estranged Students.  Through her work, she has helped make UHI Moray a more inclusive and supportive environment. 

She does not seek recognition and often struggles to believe in her own worth.  She is modest about the part she has played, but those who have worked alongside her know that without Katie, the Promise Group and its key projects would not have developed in the way they have. 

However, what makes Katie stand out is not only her work with the Promise Group, but the qualities she demonstrates every day.