Thousands of students from Ealing’s University of West London are celebrating their graduation this week, with nine ceremonies being held over three days at Twickenham’s Allianz Stadium.
Students from across the university’s schools and colleges began taking to the stage today (21 July 2026), joined by family and friends.
Eleven people are also being awarded honorary degrees during the ceremonies in recognition of their contributions to their professions and communities.
The first three recipients are entrepreneur and philanthropist Frank Khalid OBE, founder of West London Film Studios; theatre director and actor Barrie Rutter OBE; and registered midwife Alicia Burnett, founder of Black Baby Loss Awareness.
Mr Khalid’s West London Film Studios has hosted productions including Ted Lasso, The Father, Judy and Killing Eve. He is also the founder of restaurant and banqueting venue Chak89.
Mr Rutter founded the Northern Broadsides theatre company and has worked across stage, film, television and radio during his career.
Ms Burnett founded Black Baby Loss Awareness to improve support for Black families affected by baby loss, drawing on her experience as a midwife and her own experience of pregnancy and baby loss.
University of West London vice-chancellor and president Professor Peter John CBE told graduates: “Your hard work and commitment to your studies is a significant achievement but none of it would have been possible without your supporters. Many congratulations and I wish you all the luck in the world.”
