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A leading academic at Â鶹ӰԺ Leicester (Â鶹ӰԺ) has reached the finals of this year’s in recognition of her outstanding work tackling health inequalities and advancing community-based research.

Professor Bertha Ochieng, Professor of Integrated Health and Social Care, leads Â鶹ӰԺ’s groundbreaking Talent 25 programme, working with Arts Council England to explore the impact of early years creative engagement on children and families from less engaged demographic groups.

More than 700 nominations were received for this year's awards in the Excellence in Education strand, and four finalists will now find out who the winners are at a gala dinner in Birmingham on Friday 26 September.

Throughout her career, Professor Ochieng has worked directly with diverse communities to improve health outcomes, using participatory approaches and co-designing solutions with those most affected.

Her studies have addressed health inequalities among under-served and minority ethnic communities, from tackling childhood obesity to developing culturally sensitive health interventions that promote healthy lifestyles. Other projects she has led include programmes to reduce loneliness, the use of smart-home sensors to help older adults with complex health needs live independently, and community-based strategies to improve health in diverse populations.


Professor Ochieng at the House of Lords leading discussion on Talent 25  

In 2023, Professor Ochieng was awarded an Honorary Fellowship by the Association of British Paediatric Nurses in recognition of her outstanding contribution to child health and community empowerment.

Professor Ochieng said "It was a complete surprise to discover I had not only been nominated but had reached the finals of these awards. My work in health and social care has always cetred on diverse, under-served communities and low-income families, and this recognition helps to amplify their voices and experiences. I am fortunate to work with an amazing team, and I share this honour with them."

Professor Simon Oldroyd, PVC (Sustainability) and Dean of the Faculty of Health and Life Science, said: “We are absolutely delighted to see Bertha’s outstanding contributions recognised at a national level, what a fantastic acknowledgement of her work! Her dedication to improving health and social care for under-served communities over many years is an inspiration to colleagues and students alike."

The Black Talent Awards are supported by major sponsors including Merlin Entertainments, Serco, Lloyds Banking Group, Haleon, Jacobs, Centrica and JC Decaux.

Denise Myers, founder of the awards, said: “Young Black talent needs to see role models who are relatable and succeeding on terms they can identify with. These awards celebrate those who have triumphed despite the disadvantages posed by race, gender or social background.”