St Andrews Business School student scoops top social mobility award
Leonardo Dhinsa, a third-year Business School student at St Andrews, was honoured for his exceptional academic achievements at the sixth annual Student Social Mobility Awards in London. Raised by his mother and grandparents in Derby, Leonardo took on the responsibility of caring for his grandmother after his grandfather passed away when he was 14. He even took a year off after Sixth Form College to care for her during her illness.
Leonardo Dhinsa, a third-year Business School student at St Andrews, was honoured for his exceptional academic achievements at the sixth annual Student Social Mobility Awards in London. Raised by his mother and grandparents in Derby, Leonardo took on the responsibility of caring for his grandmother after his grandfather passed away when he was 14. He even took a year off after Sixth Form College to care for her during her illness.
After his grandmother’s recovery, Leonardo moved 350 miles to study Economics at St Andrews. Despite the distance, he stays in close contact with his family and responds to health emergencies as needed. His dedication to both his family and studies has been evident, as he ranked first in his cohort in his first year and earned a place on the Dean’s List for two consecutive years. He also won the William Blair Memorial Prize in his first year and the Nisbet Prize in his second year.
In addition to his academic success, Leonardo has built a career as a computer programmer, running his own software development company. He has worked on significant contracts for the NHS, football teams, and food producers, and has recently hired an intern to help a student he once tutored gain programming experience.
Leonardo credits his success to the support he has received from St Andrews staff and students. “The University has supported me in everything I do, assuring me that if I struggle, they will be there to help. As a student with a disability, the disability advisors at Student Services have been incredible,” he said.
Winning the 2024 Student Social Mobility Award for Academic Achievement was a validating moment for Leonardo. “It reminded me that my dedication and persistence to overcome adversity are worth celebrating. This award motivates me to show others what is possible and will serve as a springboard for my future career.”
The Student Social Mobility Awards, organised by the charity upReach, recognise the achievements of undergraduates from lower socio-economic backgrounds and highlight the work of individuals and organisations transforming social mobility in the UK.
Nick Bent, CEO of upReach, remarked, “These awards are even more significant amidst the cost-of-living crisis. They celebrate the resilience and success of individuals who have triumphed over adversity, providing inspiration for future generations.”