We're searching for an outstanding undergraduate student from a UK university to be our Undergraduate of the Year for Celebrating Social Mobility!
In partnership with Howden, this award champions students from a social mobility background, who demonstrate entrepreneurial spirit, have a proactive mindset, and have a desire to make a positive, lasting impact in the work that they do.
To apply, you must be:
and meet two of the following criteria:
You could win a special lunch with three of Howden’s most influential leaders - our Chief People Officer, Chief Investment Officer & Group Chief Risk Officer. This is a unique chance to connect, ask questions, and gain insights from top figures in the industry.
All 40 shortlisted candidates will also be invited to an engaging Insight Week at Howden HQ in Spring 2026. These fully funded experiences cover travel, accommodation, and any loss of earnings, so every participant can take part. During both events, candidates will:
Howden is dedicated to supporting all 40 finalists throughout the year by helping them grow, connect, and take their first steps towards becoming the industry’s future leaders.
The winner of this award will be a person from a social mobility background who shows great potential; demonstrating entrepreneurial drive, an active can-do attitude, and an ability to work with people. They will show dedication, resilience, and a willingness to work collaboratively and want to make a difference. Above all, they must be excited about learning, developing and shaping their future.
Social mobility is deeply important to Howden. As an employee-owned business, we believe in independence, empowerment, and giving people the opportunity to shape their own futures, regardless of background. We’ve always been driven by entrepreneurial spirit and a commitment to hiring talented individuals, then giving them the freedom and support to make a real impact. Partnering with the Undergraduate of the Year Programme is a natural extension of that ethos. This award matters to us because it celebrates potential, not polish. It’s about recognising young people who have the drive, values, and mindset to thrive in a business like ours, and giving them a platform to explore a career in an industry built on trust, relationships, and real-world impact.
To find out more, click here.