Aurelia Brzezowska
“I never owned a computer until I came to University of Staffordshire.”
And yet, three years later, 21 year-old Aurelia Brzezowska has just been named STEAM Personality of the Year at the Inspirational Youth Awards and is seen as one of the leading young technology changemakers in the UK.
A Computer Science undergraduate student at University of Staffordshire, Aurelia is dedicated to promoting diversity, inclusion and opportunities through her passion for the subject.
Aurelia moved to the UK from Poland when she was six years old. She was stimulated from a young age by, in her own words, “breaking things and putting them back together”.
In 2023 Aurelia received a RAEng scholarship to attend university, where she is now seen as an inspirational figure within that community and beyond.
She has held a number of roles and responsibilities during her time at University of Staffordshire including STEM Ambassador, Youth Advisory Panellist for the UK Cyber Security Council, Manager of the Staffs Computing Society and Co-Founder of the Staffs Women in STEM Society.
In 2024 Aurelia founded Byte Queens – a UK-based network for women in technology which is changing the conversation on representation in STEM by empowering women from disadvantaged backgrounds to excel in computing and by offering opportunities to support development.
Aurelia says she is driven by a desire to give back. This stems from her own childhood and educational journey and her work not only positively affects university students but the wider Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire community.
Aurelia said: “I came from a single-parent immigrant household, and I could barely read when I was younger.
“I was the only girl who took Computer Science at A Level in my college and I have always wanted to be a role model.
“I have a real focus on supporting those from lower socio-economic backgrounds and encouraging more girls to pursue STEM subjects.
“My community helped me to get to where I am now and so I want to give back to the community whenever I can.
“I am passionate about helping others to access educational opportunities.
“My recent STEAM award truly means the world to me. But this is just the beginning. I’m more motivated than ever to have an impact on as many people as possible.”
Aurelia Brzezowska has been nominated in the Future Star category of the Your Heroes Awards 2025.
Brooklynne Chadwick
Apprentice accountant Brooklynne Chadwick began working with one of her employer’s largest clients, including preparing the payroll for a business with 100 employees, after just a few weeks in the role.
The 17-year-old has been praised for her ‘exceptional dedication, skill and professionalism throughout her apprenticeship’.
Brooklynne is studying for a Level 3 AAT Apprenticeship at Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group alongside working at JMT Accountancy in Fenton.
Tomasz Putynkowski, Director of JMT, said: “Brooklynne has shown remarkable aptitude in her role, quickly mastering complex accounting tasks and consistently delivering high-quality work.
“Her attention to detail and commitment to accuracy have significantly contributed to the efficiency and effectiveness of our team. She has taken on responsibilities beyond her initial scope, showcasing her ability to learn and adapt swiftly.
“Brooklynne is a team player who fosters a positive and collaborative work environment. She is always willing to assist her colleagues, share her knowledge and contribute to team projects. Her excellent communication skills and approachable demeanour make her a respected and valued member of our team. Brooklynne handles client enquiries with professionalism and ensures that their needs are met promptly and effectively.”
Brooklynne has been nominated in the Future Star category of the Your Heroes Awards.
Millie Quick
T-Level Business Management and Administration student Millie Quick has become a mentor for other students working alongside her in placements at Newcastle-under-Lyme based Recruitment Robin.
The 18-year-old is in the second year of a T-Level in business management and administration which she combines with working one day per week as a recruitment admin assistant.
Her role at the company has changed to include mentoring first year T-Level and BTEC students and helping to teach them skills including goal setting and creating cash flow forecasts.
Selina Rudzik, Director of Recruitment Robin, said: “Millie’s journey has seen her evolve from a reserved student into a proactive and highly
valued team member. She has taken every opportunity to develop new skills, build her confidence and contribute meaningfully to the business.
“As part of her professional growth, Millie was introduced to the local business community through networking events, an experience that initially saw her as a quiet observer. However, through her dedication and perseverance she has flourished into a confident and articulate spokesperson, not only for Recruitment Robin but for the T-Level programme itself.
“Millie’s ability to take initiative, think innovatively and contribute fresh ideas has made a positive and lasting impact on both Recruitment Robin and the wider T-Level programme.
“She embodies the spirit of continuous learning and development, demonstrating how education and work experience can shape a young professional into a confident, capable and inspirational leader of the future.
“One of Millie’s most outstanding achievements has been her transition into an ambassadorial role, where she now delivers professional presentations to educate and engage local employers about the benefits of T-Level placements.
“Through her innovative approach and ability to connect with business leaders, she has helped increase awareness and participation in the programme, showcasing how T-Level students can bring real value to businesses.”
Millie Quick has been nominated in the Future Star category of the Your Heroes Awards.