The NEWH UK Chapter has announced the winners of its 2025 scholarship programme, recognising four outstanding students whose creativity, innovation, and professionalism embody the future of the design and hospitality industries.
This year’s Interior Design scholarships have been awarded to:
- Hannah Cecile Schmidt – Falmouth University
- Alicja Doniec – UAL: Chelsea College of the Arts
- Francesca Conidi – Middlesex University
The Hotel Management scholarship has been awarded to:
- Miriam Bennet – University of Lincoln
These students were honoured at the NEWH UK Fundraiser, held on Thursday, 16 October 2025, at the historic Furniture Makers’ Hall, London. The annual event celebrates emerging talent and raises funds to support NEWH’s ongoing mission to nurture the next generation of hospitality leaders.
A Showcase of Creativity and Excellence
Earlier this summer, students presented their responses to the brief – bold spa design concepts aligned to a hotel brand – before an esteemed judging panel:
- Arun Rana, Design Director, Accor
- Toni Black, Interior Director & Partner, Blacksheep
- Beverley Bayes, Co-Owner & Director, Sparcstudio
- Jacob Allan, Business Development Manager, GESSI (UK) LIMITED
- Tolù Adẹ̀kọ́, Founder, Adẹ̀kọ́ & Co
- Ben Eneke, Senior Project Lead, Blacksheep
Chaired by Kate Mitchell, NEWH UK Scholarship Director, the panel praised the entrants’ creativity, research, and professionalism, highlighting the high calibre of work produced this year.
An evening of recognition and inspiration
With leading industry figures in attendance, the NEWH UK Fundraiser once again delivered a vibrant evening of connection, collaboration, and celebration, spotlighting the exceptional young talent shaping the future of hospitality and design.
Proud support from industry leaders
This year’s event was generously supported by Hypnos Beds, Lutron, Ulster Carpets, and ABI Interiors, whose commitment to education and innovation continues to strengthen NEWH’s impact across the industry.
David Baldry, Group Managing Director of Hypnos, said: “Hypnos are immensely proud to be supporting NEWH once again, helping to inspire and nurture the future leadership of the hospitality industry. As long-standing partners, we believe in investing in the next generation of talent – fostering raw creativity and encouraging innovation that will shape the industry for years to come. Supporting NEWH is as much about support as it is about building a stronger, more sustainable hospitality community, together.”
Xavier Boudin, Head of Commercial Sales & Specification – UK & Ireland at Lutron, added: “This year again, Lutron was proud to sponsor the NEWH UK Fundraiser & Scholarship Presentation. “We believe that cooperation and exchange of information are key to support the hospitality market in the UK and help new talents thrive in this exciting industry.”
Joyce McIvor, Contract Sales Director UK & Ireland at Ulster Carpets, said: “Ulster Carpets have been delighted to sponsor the NEWH UK Fundraiser, supporting the next generation of designers and hospitality professionals. Innovation and creativity are at the heart of everything we do, and it is inspiring to see the emerging talent that will help shape the future of our industry.”
Mark Poulain, Commercial Director, ABI Interiors, said: “Investing in the next generation of design talent is vital for the future of our industry, and we have been so proud to play a part in creating opportunities for emerging professionals. Supporting NEWH reflects our commitment to education, creativity, and the wider hospitality design community.”
Kevin Swart, NEWH UK President, said: “These students represent the passion, innovation, and drive that keep our industry thriving. Events like this demonstrate the power of community – supporting, mentoring, and celebrating those who will lead hospitality and design into the future.”
Visit newh.org/chapters/united-kingdom/ to learn more about NEWH UK and its scholarship initiatives.
