Nominate for the 2026 Alumni Awards: Hannah Merchant on why it matters
Hannah Merchant (BA Hons English Literature 2022) was recognised at the 2025 University of Liverpool Alumni Awards for her outstanding commitment to equity, inclusion and international impact. Now Digital and Engagement Manager at The PIE, Hannah previously worked at Universities UK International, leading global research delegations and helping rebuild international partnerships.
Her dedication to community runs deep from mentoring young people with IntoUniversity, to volunteering with Refugee Community Kitchen and Refugee Women Connect. Last year, she received the University’s Equality+ Gender Equality Award, and was also honoured with the British Red Cross’s highest humanitarian award.
Hannah shared her reflections with us, including how it felt to be recognised, how the experience has shaped her, and why she believes more alumni should get involved in nominating others (or themselves) for the 2026 Alumni Awards. Read the quick-fire Q&A below.
Hannah’s quick-fire Q&A
Describe winning the Alumni Award in three words
Empowered, inspired and honoured
What sparked your passion for your equity work?
I’ve always wanted to make a difference, I felt strongly that I wanted to be a voice for those who don’t get to have one. Seeing the impact firsthand was important to me. The people you get to meet are impactful and play a huge part of who you are and who you become.
One lesson from uni you still use?
Resilience. During uni navigating Covid, bereavements, and the challenges of being neurodivergent taught me that with persistence and self-belief, good things do come your way. It’s a lesson I carry into every part of my life, personally and professionally.
As a quick itinerary, describe your perfect day in Liverpool.
It might be different now, than my uni days in Concert Square! A walk around Sefton Park and having some food on Lark Lane sounds lovely.
Your proudest achievement?
I’m proud of the impact I’ve had in higher education through international delegations and global partnerships, and equally proud of being recognised with an EQ+ Award for my commitment to equality and community impact.
Why nominate someone (or themselves) for the 2026 Alumni Awards?
To celebrate the impact you, or someone you admire, is making. Whether you’re at the start of your career or further along, being recognised by Liverpool is a meaningful full–circle moment.
If someone comes to mind, or if you feel ready to put yourself forward, now is the perfect time to submit a nomination!
What would you say to someone who thinks they're not “award material”?
Even if you doubt yourself, your work is making a difference. Nominations are a chance to celebrate that impact and to inspire others to step forward and make a difference too.
Which 2026 category fits you best? (Options: Sustainability and Environment Award, Sciences and Engineering Award, Health and Well-Being Award, Culture, Creativity and Sport Award, Enterprise and Innovation Award)
Enterprise and Innovation Award – for my work in international higher education delegations, fostering global partnerships and promoting research and innovation. Alongside my leadership in equality, mentoring and community initiatives.
Favourite moment from the Awards day?
Having my family there and connecting with the other award winners was my favourite moment. It was inspiring to see how different our sectors are, yet we all studied at the same place, it was a real sense of community.
Nominate now for the 2026 Alumni Awards
Do you know someone making an impact, in their community, their profession, or across the world? Or are you doing meaningful work but haven’t had the chance to celebrate it?
Submit your nomination now by using the link below:
You can explore the full list of 2026 award categories and eligibility criteria on our website to help guide your submission.
Please note: the nomination deadline has been extended to Friday 16 January 2026, 5pm (GMT).