Idris Dawson was the recipient of the scholarship in 2024-25, the Pharmacy student talked about how the scheme has helped him, especially in the aftermath of a serious injury.

The karate international said: “The scholarship has given me the opportunity to compete abroad which has led to me gaining an incredible experience. In addition, it has taken some financial pressure off which has been a massive factor in allowing me to balance study and training. 

Idris is part of the England Karate Squad and has been successful in competing in Italy and Spain recently. The scholarship has allowed him to cover fees for international competitions, expenses, protective equitpment which must be pristine for international competition.

The scholarship has also supported monthly travel from Sunderland to Birmingham, as well as the training costs for Idris to train with some of the best fighters in the world.