A big congratulations to Prithvi Ramesh, who won in the Engineering and Manufacturing category at the Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards! This is an incredible achievement, and all of us here at UCW are incredibly proud! We caught up with Prithvi to hear all about his win.
Prithvi is currently studying the BEng Aerospace Engineering degree in partnership with the University of the West of England. This course is a degree apprenticeship with his employer, Rolls Royce. Before joining UCW, Prithvi completed a Level 2 NVQ with Weston College gaining valuable hands-on experience in areas such as welding, machining, and milling.
The national awards received more than 500 applications across a range of industries, with just 10 finalists shortlisted in Prithvi’s category. Reflecting on the moment his name was announced, Prithvi said: “When my name was announced as the winner, it didn’t feel real. Seeing my face on the big screen and walking up onto the stage in front of more than 750 people, felt surreal. The levels of talent in that room were incredible, and I felt extremely humbled and honoured to have been selected for this award. It definitely felt like a pinch-me moment!”
For Prithvi, the award represents recognition of years of dedication to both his studies and his role as an ambassador for apprenticeships. “Winning this award was more than just receiving a glass trophy. It was recognising the efforts I’ve put in with being a degree apprentice at Rolls-Royce, and with being an ambassador for apprenticeships. Over the years I have spoken to thousands of students about apprenticeships, and being able to inspire these students and give back to the community has always been important to me.”
He added: “Winning this award has given me a platform to continue inspiring the next generation of engineers and apprentices. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to further develop my personal brand, which will hopefully aid my career growth – being recognised and valued within Rolls-Royce, and within the early careers community.”
The award ceremony took place at the London Hilton Metropole, where finalists, employers, and industry leaders came together to celebrate excellence in apprenticeships. “The event started with networking and a great selection of street food starters – Pan Asian and Afro-Caribbean – along with music and drinks, which was a great way to reconnect with other finalists,” Prithvi shared. “The awards ceremony itself was full of cultural dance performances, speeches, comedy, and heartfelt messages. Each category celebrated both apprentice and employer winners, followed by a fantastic afterparty with desserts – it was a brilliant experience overall.”
When we asked what helped him stand out to the judges, Prithvi reflected on his active involvement beyond his studies: “There were ten highly talented finalists within the Engineering and Manufacturing category, so it must have been a very tight competition. I’d imagine my dedication to being an apprenticeship ambassador and getting involved in extra-curricular events within work, such as leadership conferences, would have helped me stand out.”
Winning this award has had a huge impact on Prithvi’s confidence and outlook: “This award has boosted my confidence in that I feel like I am more capable for things that may seem out of reach, or too challenging. At 16, I never imagined I’d be working for Rolls-Royce in two years’ time. At 18, when starting my apprenticeship, I never imagined I’d be the winner of a national award. I’ve learned to not be afraid of challenges, to ask questions, or to put my hand up for opportunities when they arise.”
He added: “Winning this award has increased my confidence in that anything is possible with the right work ethic and mindset.”
Prithvi’s degree apprenticeship forms part of the Engineering and Construction Careers Excellence Hub. University Centre Weston’s Career Excellence Hubs are designed to be the launching pad for our learners’ careers. In a world where connections and relevant skills matter more than ever, these hubs offer a holistic approach that prepares learners to thrive in their chosen industries. With the support of these hubs, our learners are well-equipped to make a significant impact in their professional journeys.
Everyone here at University Centre Weston is immensely proud of Prithvi’s achievement and the example he sets for future engineers and apprentices.
Find out more about degree apprenticeships and studying Aerospace Engineering at UCW, by clicking the links!
