Inspirational Cardiff Business School graduate wins AMBA Student of the Year Award

Wael Abdin has won the prestigious AMBA Student of the Year Award 2025.

The AMBA and BGA Excellence Awards 2025 were held in London on 24 January. The awards brought together leading lights from the global business education community to celebrate excellence and commend achievement among business schools, MBA students and graduates, suppliers, and employers.

The awards play a pivotal role in supporting AMBA’s pledge to support the MBA degree’s status as the leading international business qualification.

The AMBA Student of the Year Award recognises students who have shown exceptional career potential and who AMBA believes can act as ambassadors for the high quality of accredited MBAs and the opportunities these programmes provide for students.

Wael Abdin is Cardiff Business School’s first blind MBA student and his participation has significantly benefited the programme. Module leaders stated:

“Wael significantly enhanced my teaching delivery style and content, driving me to seek innovative methods of engagement to foster inclusivity”.

“A very intellectual and enthusiastic student. His perspective on Sudan enriched class discussions, particularly when talking about international business culture”.

“Wael has consistently demonstrated unwavering determination, resilience, and an exceptional commitment to academic excellence. His approach to learning is characterised by meticulous preparation, innovative problem-solving, and a remarkable ability to engage with complex material in unique and insightful ways.”

Commenting on his win, Wael says:

“I am deeply honoured to receive this award and would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to my family and the Cardiff Business School for their unwavering support. As a blind individual, this recognition is not only a personal achievement but also a testament to the resilience and determination of the people of Sudan. Despite the challenges that come with being blind, I have been able to establish my legal practice, achieve recognition in Chambers and Partners, and lead a new trans-partisan political party in Sudan.

My journey is a testament to the fact that with perseverance and the support of loved ones, we can overcome any obstacles. Additionally, my efforts to launch a digital legal platform aim to make legal services more accessible and affordable to all. This award serves as a reminder that with dedication and perseverance, we can all achieve great things.”

Professor Tim Edwards, Dean and Head of Cardiff Business School, said: "Congratulations to Wael on this remarkable achievement. Winning this prestigious award is a testament to your hard work, dedication, and the lasting impact you’ve made on Cardiff Business School. You’re an inspiration to our current and future MBA students, and we couldn’t be prouder of your success."

Andrew Main Wilson, Chief Executive of the Association of MBAs and Business Graduates Association, said: “On behalf of the AMBA and BGA team, I would like to congratulate the finalists and winners of this year’s Excellence Awards. This year, the competition was stronger than ever – with the highest number of entries ever. The entries who have made the final shortlist in each category should feel proud of their achievements.”