Students from the Class of ‘23 at the University for the Creative Arts (UCA) in Farnham descended upon London’s Royal Festival Hall for their graduation ceremonies on Monday.

Opening the ceremonies, Professor Bashir Makhoul, UCA president and vice-chancellor, told graduating students: “You are stepping out today into a world of great promise – the thriving creative industries – and the opportunities for creative graduates are endless. Be ready to seize them, and to embrace challenges, with an open mind. 

“I am confident of your drive, unrelenting ambition and passion for creativity, and I am eager to see how you will apply your talents and make a difference around the world.”

During the ceremonies, UCA chancellor and renowned ceramicist Magdalene Odundo OBE offered this piece of advice: “Commit wholeheartedly to your goals and trust that your talent will enable you to achieve them. 

“I’ve had the pleasure of working with some of the world’s greatest designers and artists, and they all share a common value: staying true to their vision.”

In the presence of families, friends and staff across two days of ceremonies, graduates came up to the stage and collected their degree certificates – the culmination of their journey at UCA.

Graduating students will now take their place in the global creative community as they embark on the next stage in their creative careers.