Designed to recognise adult learners who demonstrate exceptional commitment, progress and impact, the Learner of the Year award celebrates individuals who overcome challenges and inspire those around them. Amani Sobhi is highly commended for her remarkable journey and the difference she is making within her college and community.
The challenge
Amani Sobhi arrived in the UK as a refugee and single mother, facing significant language, cultural and personal challenges as she began rebuilding her life. Despite these barriers, she showed extraordinary determination in returning to education and creating new opportunities for herself and her young son.
From the outset, Amani approached learning with focus and resilience, committing herself fully to developing her skills and confidence in a new environment.
A transformative journey
Since joining CECOS College London, Amani has completed nine courses across ESOL, Functional Skills English and Maths, and Digital Skills. Her consistent dedication has enabled her to make strong academic progress, and she is now progressing to a Level 3 Diploma with ambitions to enter higher education and pursue a career in business and management.
Alongside her studies, Amani has become a natural leader among her peers. She actively supports others by creating learning resources and facilitating collaboration through initiatives such as a Functional Skills WhatsApp study group, helping to build a supportive and inclusive learning community.
Her nominator said: “Amani freely offers her time, demonstrating compassion and empathy, and she uses her natural flair for leadership to help fellow students who are more reserved or lacking in confidence to engage fully.”
A truly deserving commendation
Amani’s impact extends beyond the classroom. Her empathy, inclusive approach and commitment to helping others are reflected in her community volunteering and the positive influence she has on those around her.
She shares: "I feel incredibly proud and honoured to receive the Aspiration Awards highly commended award for 2026. This recognition is such a meaningful encouragement, and it reminds me that dedication and passion really do count. I am deeply thankful for this honour and for every bit of support that has helped me along my path".
Amani’s positive attitude, determination, and genuine care for others have been recognised formally through multiple ‘Star of the Week’ certificates reflecting attributes such as excellent attendance, peer support, problem solving, creativity, ambition, leadership and teamwork.
Her journey is one of resilience, leadership and ambition. By overcoming significant challenges and empowering others to succeed, Amani has made a lasting and transformative contribution.
Amani's nominator added: "It gives us all at the college an immense sense of pride to see Amani honoured in such a way. She has truly been an inspirational presence on campus and it's wonderful to see such hard work and dedication given the spotlight it deserves.
"I would also like to acknowledge the contribution made by our delivery team who have supported Amani every step of the way".
Congratulations Amani! To read more inspirational stories from this year’s award winners, visit our Aspiration Awards 2026 page.
