United Colleges Group (UCG) is thrilled to announce that Hamzeh Mouallem, a student from City of Westminster College, has won the prestigious Mayor of London Inspirational Adult Learner of the Year Award.
This award recognises London's most outstanding adult learners who have overcome significant barriers to achieve their educational goals.
Hamzeh’s journey is a powerful testament to hard work and determination. Arriving in London in 2019 as a refugee from Syria, he spoke little English and was separated from his family. When his younger brother joined him two years later, Hamzeh selflessly took on a paternal role, supporting his brother while forging his own path.
Despite these personal challenges and working full-time in a restaurant, Hamzeh enrolled in a Higher National Diploma in Business at City of Westminster College, where tutors consistently highlighted his exceptional work ethic and positive attitude that quickly saw him become a popular and integral part of the college community.
Hamzeh rapidly progressed in adult education after struggling with English to producing university-level academic essays and achieving a Distinction overall in his HND Business qualification.
In his final year, he was City of Westminster College’s Adult Student of the Year and received the CEO and Group Principal’s Award in recognition of his outstanding progress against a backdrop of fiercely challenging circumstances.
Hamzeh now attends West London University, where he will complete a Top-Up degree to convert his HND into a BA (Hons) to facilitate his journey to owning his own business. His story stands as an inspiring example of how lifelong learning can change lives.
Stephen Davis, CEO and Group Principal of United Colleges Group, said: Stephen Davis, CEO and Group Principal of United Colleges Group, said: “Hamzeh’s journey through City of Westminster College empowered him to learn English, forge a career pathway, and secure a place at university. It is a testament to how education can support people to achieve extraordinary things. We are incredibly proud of his success and the example he sets for all adult learners in London.”
Reflecting on his achievement, Hamzeh Mouallem said: “I chose to study to build a better future for myself and my family. This journey was about rebuilding a life with purpose. I was proud to be recognised with distinctions; achievements I never imagined when I first arrived in the UK. My time at City of Westminster College has given me confidence, new skills and renewed hope for the future.”
The awards which took place on 13th November 2025 were live streamed, and can be viewed here: The Mayor of London Adult Learning Awards | London City Hall