Award wins for sustainability research by York St John students 

Students from York St John University have impressed audiences and unlocked new opportunities after sharing their research at two student sustainability conferences. 

Humanities MRes student Michael Osagie, was awarded the winner of the Student Sustainability Research Conference Award at the London Student Sustainability Conference 2026, held at Kingston University. The conference brought together student researchers from across the country, representing a highly competitive and intellectually rigorous platform focused on advancing sustainability research.  

His presentation focused on sustainability and environmental protection, with particular emphasis on the Apoi Creek Ramsar Site, a wetland of international importance. Aligned closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the work addresses ecosystem conservation, climate resilience, and sustainable environmental governance. He aims to contribute to broader global discussions on responsible stewardship of fragile ecological systems. 

Michael was also a winner at the Student Sustainability Research Conference hosted by the University of Leeds this month. He was recognised with the People’s Choice Award for his poster presentation after scooping the most votes from conference participants.  

Two other York St John students were also selected to present at the event in Leeds: Dr Olusemiloore Atere with her work Healing Minds, Building Futures: Youth-Led Mental Health Advocacy for Sustainable Communities and Shannon Keenan shared her project The Thriving Five Supper Club. 

Michael Osagie, Humanities MRes student said: 

“This journey has reaffirmed my belief that preparation meets opportunity, and that as researchers, we have a responsibility to contribute to both local and global sustainability agendas. I am particularly grateful for the supportive research culture at York St John University, which has equipped me with the tools, guidance, and confidence to engage on international platforms and represent the University with pride. It has been inspiring to meet scholars and practitioners whose work continues to guide and motivate my own. 

“Sharing research publicly is not just about recognition; it’s about building networks, influencing thinking, and contributing to real-world solutions. Value attracts opportunity, and every presentation is a chance to learn, collaborate, and amplify impact.” 

Dr Olusemiloore Peace Atere is an MBA Healthcare Management student at York St John University and a medical doctor with a strong interest in mental health advocacy and sustainable community development. Her research focuses on youth-led mental health advocacy and its role in building resilient and sustainable communities.  

She said: 

“The Student Sustainability Research Conference provided a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas with researchers across sustainability disciplines, and it was encouraging to see York St John University students contributing to these important interdisciplinary discussions.  

“My work explores how youth-led mental health advocacy can be positioned within sustainability frameworks, particularly in strengthening community resilience and participation. Drawing from over six years leading the Asido Campus Network during my time as a medical student, the project highlights how peer-led models can contribute to broader sustainable development goals through mental health awareness, early support, and community engagement. The work also reflects how mental wellbeing functions as a critical, yet often overlooked, component of sustainable communities.”  

Shannon Keenan is a Foundation Year student on the Religion, Philosophy and Ethics BA. She said she was honoured to be selected to present at the conference:  

“It felt wonderful to be part of such a positive event and I was very grateful and excited to share my work. 

“The Thriving Five Supper Club' is an idea I had to help students with five core areas - Mental Health; Physical Health; Cost of Living; Alcohol Free Socialising and Waste management in a shared kitchen. In essence, these five areas, according to my research are often cited as reasons to ruin the 'University Experience' for first year Uni Students.” 

The conferences have also led to further engagement opportunities for the students. Dr Atere’s work has now been accepted for the 27th World Congress of the International Association for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Allied Professions (IACAPAP) in Hamburg this July.   

Michael Osagie has now been invited to speak at several high-profile international conferences including the 10th World Conference on Research in Social Sciences in Helsinki, the 10th World Conference on Social Sciences, Copenhagen, and ICERS 2026 in Zagreb.