Leigh-Anne Pinnock collects honorary doctorate for racial equality campaigning
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eigh-Anne Pinnock collected an honorary doctorate from Buckinghamshire New University (BNU) on Wednesday.
The Little Mix star, 31, returned to her hometown of High Wycombe and was escorted throughout campus by BNU chancellor and The Repair Shop host Jay Blades.
The singer was receiving the honorary doctorate in recognition of her music profession and energetic campaigning for racial equality and anti-racism – having co-founded the charity The Black Fund.
Pinnock stated: “Growing up, I must have walked past BNU’s High Wycombe campus a million times, curious about what was being studied and taught there. But in all that time I never imagined I’d be stood here today with an honorary doctorate in the arts.
The star received the honour in recognition of her music career and active campaigning for racial equality and anti-racism
/ PA“It’s such a privilege to be recognised by such a credible, creative and supportive university so I am extremely happy and proud to be here today.”
Pinnock inspired the scholars to imagine in themselves and to “surround yourself with others who believe in you too” as a result of “your goals are achievable”.
She stated: “In many ways, my story is one that I think mirrors many of the students’ experiences here today. It’s a story of a woman who had a passion, who had a goal that she thought might just be achievable.
“But it’s also a story of a woman who thanks to the support of her mentors and believers, along with a lot of hard work and dedication, eventually got where she wanted to be.
“And while I am blessed to have had a successful recording career, it is so rewarding that it’s my work as a campaigner for racial equality and anti-racism that is being recognised today.
“Alongside my music, this is a role that becomes more important to me every single day.”
Pinnock paid a particular because of TV presenter Blades, who she credited as mentoring her by way of her teenage years in High Wycombe.
Blades, who attended the ceremony in his capability as chancellor of the college, since formally taking on the function in March 2023, stated: “Leigh-Anne couldn’t deserve this more.
“Not only is she an incredible talent, but she also uses her platform for the good of society and has never forgotten her roots.
Pinnock was left speechless when a troupe of dance and performance students appeared for a flashmob
/ PA“I am so proud of all that she’s achieved and was thrilled to be here today to see her recognised for her work. I mentor a few people so this is definitely a real full-circle moment for the both of us.”
Professor Nick Braisby, vice chancellor of BNU, stated Pinnock reminds us that “we have the power to create positive change in our communities”.
He added: “Her journey serves as an inspiring example for our students and the wider community, encouraging us to pursue passions, challenge societal norms, and effect meaningful change.
“By embracing Leigh-Anne’s story, BNU reaffirms its commitment to nurturing future generations of compassionate leaders who will shape a more inclusive and equitable world.”
After receiving the honour, Pinnock was left speechless when a troupe of dance and efficiency college students appeared for a flashmob to rejoice the milestone.
They danced to Pinnock’s debut solo single Don’t Say Love to rejoice her feat.