Netball star wins top award

McKenzie Howell, a BA(Hons) Physical Education student, scooped the University of Brighton Young Volunteer of the Year trophy in this year’s Sussex Sports Awards.

She said: “I was very shocked and honoured - I didn't expect it.”

GB hurdler and relay runner Kriss Akabusi MBE hosted the awards evening at Brighton’s Hilton Metropole Hotel. It was organised by Active Sussex, based at the University.

McKenzie explained her motivation: “If it doesn't challenge you, it won't change you", adding: "A dream doesn't become reality through magic, it takes a lot of hard work."

McKenzie is a member of the university’s Netball Club. She volunteers for the Eastbourne-based club and gained the volunteer position of University Student Netball Officer on behalf of England Netball.

McKenzie receives her award from Barry Squires Head of Sport at the university

Mckenzie has accrued over 100 hours of voluntary time this last year by supporting two weekly social netball sessions to allow the wider student population to participate in the sport. She also looks after event delivery, club administration and acts as Kit Officer.

This is the second award of its kind for McKenzie who received the University's Volunteer of the Year earlier this year.

McKenzie has tattoos which read "think positive" and “believe & achieve" to help her when times get tough.

She said: “With many setbacks since starting University in 2018 I have not let anything negative get the better of me. With the help, guidance and support of members of Sport Brighton and the University I would not have been able to come close to winning this award.”