A student who experienced homelessness during sixth form has been recognised for his work improving opportunities for others.
Anthony Braganza, who grew up in Tottenham, received the Improving Social Mobility Award at the 18th annual Student Social Mobility Awards held on July 8.
The awards, organised by social mobility charity upReach, celebrate the achievements of undergraduates from lower socio-economic backgrounds who have shown resilience and determination in their studies and beyond.
Mr Braganza said: "All of it comes from the same place: knowing what it costs a young person when the system is not looking for them, and wanting to be someone who changes that."
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His journey to higher education was far from easy.
He experienced homelessness, estrangement from his family, and a lack of support for his neurodivergent needs, including undiagnosed autism and ADHD.
The Covid-19 pandemic further disrupted his education, as he did not have access to a suitable study environment or digital devices, and missed out on critical school communications.
Support from Depaul UK, a charity tackling youth homelessness, marked a turning point.
He became a client representative, using his lived experience to help shape the charity’s housing and support services.
Mr Braganza also found encouragement through the Rising Green Youth Club, run by Haringey Council.
He said: "It provided a space where youth opportunities existed, where I could get involved in project work, connect with others and access the youth council that was based there."
He has just finished his first year at the London Interdisciplinary School, studying Interdisciplinary Problems and Methods.
His degree focuses on solving real-world issues using approaches from the arts, sciences, and humanities - a structure he described as being uniquely suited to the way he thinks.
Mr Braganza remains committed to giving back to his community.
He volunteers on the Mayor’s Fund for London Youth Board and the Haringey Youth Council, working to improve opportunities for young people facing digital and socio-economic barriers.
Nick Bent, chief executive of upReach, said: "Talent is everywhere, but young people are often held back by things outside of their control.
"Now more than ever, it is imperative to uplift those who have worked tirelessly to succeed, and who are bringing new life to social mobility in the UK."
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