Davies Abienekpen, Shines Abroad with Double International Awards

A young Nigerian, Davies Abienekpen, has continued to make the country proud on the global stage, clinching two prestigious awards in recognition of his outstanding contributions to digital media and mental health advocacy while studying in the United Kingdom.

Davies, a postgraduate student of Digital Media and Communications at Teesside University, received the Gold Recognition at the Voluncheers Awards 2025, where he was honoured for his exceptional leadership as the Chair of the University’s Podcast and Radio Society. He was praised for mentoring aspiring broadcasters, building a strong community around audio storytelling, and helping students find their voice through podcasting.

In addition, he was named the 2024/25 Winner of the Global Perspectives Award at the university’s Emerging Talent Degree Showcase organized by the School of Arts & Creative Industries. The award was presented by Dr. Matthew Watson, Dean of the School, and celebrates students whose work demonstrates global relevance and impact.

Speaking after receiving the honour, Davies expressed gratitude for the recognition, noting that his journey has been one of purpose and passion. “If anyone had told me I would be receiving two awards in one academic year, I wouldn’t have believed it. These recognitions are not just mine—they belong to every voice we’ve amplified, every student I’ve mentored, and every story we’ve shared.”

Beyond the accolades, Davies is the founder of Davies Bridge, a social impact platform aimed at using media and storytelling to normalize mental health conversations among African youth, especially within the diaspora. Through workshops, podcasts, and media advocacy, he hopes to bridge the gap in emotional literacy and encourage help-seeking behaviour among young people.

His story continues to inspire fellow students and creatives, serving as a reminder of the power of leadership, service, and storytelling to shape lives and communities.