A university lecturer has been recognised for her efforts in connecting students with city residents.

Annie Sanger-Davies, course leader for performance at Southampton Solent University, received an award at the Unity 101 19th Anniversary Awards on Friday, January 10.

The award highlights the contributions made by Ms Sanger-Davies, as well as the university, in fostering connections between its students and the city's diverse communities.

Under her guidance, students have been involved in a range of community-centred arts projects, such as Home Theatre Southampton and Om Shanti Om.

The latter, a celebration of diversity and inclusion, was created in collaboration with Unity 101 and MAST Mayflower Studios.

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On her win, Annie said: "It is a real honour to receive this award, and a testament to our staff and student body for their collaboration with Kelly and his inspiring team of volunteers at Unity 101.

"Kelly and Solent’s Geeta Uppal, have been a consistent source of support towards the community-based projects that our performing arts students take part in, and they are always providing additional opportunities for them. We are very grateful."

Unity 101 producer, Ram Kalyan said: "Annie was the backbone of the Om Shanti Om production, bringing her incredible passion and expertise to unite students and staff from Southampton Solent University. Her dedication and ability to inspire everyone involved truly made Om Shanti Om a special and unforgettable experience. We couldn’t have done it without her!"

In addition to these initiatives, the university works with Unity 101 to offer students work experience in the broadcast industry.

It also hosts a community hour to provide insights into higher education.

A spokesperson from Solent University said: "This recognition highlights the contribution not only of Annie, but of the university, who each year work closely with the city’s diverse communities to connect people and places through their curriculum and civic charter."

For more information about Southampton Solent University's work with communities, visit solent.ac.uk/engage-with-us/community.