Talented innovators graduate from unique university degree

A second cohort of talented innovators have graduated from a unique Masters degree in Entrepreneurship at University of Staffordshire.

The Peter Coates MSc in Entrepreneurship launched in 2022 in a bid to put North Staffordshire on the map for innovation and wealth creation.

Supported through the Peter Coates Foundation, the University of Staffordshire programme offers emerging entrepreneurs the practical business education and funding support needed to grow their businesses.

And a number of the new cohort are already reaping the rewards of their hard work, talent and passion.

Psychology graduate Leah Vanono enrolled in the program to further develop her internationally patent-pending protective beanbag.

This innovative product is designed to help adults with additional learning needs and their caregivers safely manage distressed behaviours.

It uses a pioneering methodology Leah developed during her internship with The Institute of Applied Behavior Analysis in California.

In her quest to find the most suitable and ecologically responsible materials, Leah also created a groundbreaking, patent-pending textile.

Constructed from partially natural fibres and fire retardant to the highest UK fire safety standards, the fabric is washable, fast-drying, and has excellent anti-stain properties.

Graduating with a Distinction, Leah also received the course award for ‘Outstanding Innovation.’

Additionally, her business, The Social Architex, has recently secured £50,000 in grant funding from the West Midlands Health Technology Innovation Accelerator (WMHTIA).

The Social Architex was selected as a finalist in the Medilink Midlands Awards for Sustainability, and Leah has been awarded a grant from Staffordshire County Council to further develop her website.

These accolades have been invaluable for the company’s growth, enabling Leah to continue innovating.

She is currently developing an international manufacturing supply chain for her textile and exploring opportunities to sell licenses to distribution partners.

Leah said: “I’m very thankful to my course tutors and mentors for their invaluable teachings, as well as to the Peter Coates Foundation for funding my MSc and supporting our entrepreneurial journey.

“The Social Architex is fortunate to have a growing team of incredible supporters contributing to this exciting workstream, and I extend a heartfelt thank you to our inspiring collaborators and my talented friends from university.”

Meanwhile jeweller Ellina Pollitt has much to celebrate. As well as graduating from the Peter Coates MSc in Entrepreneurship, Ellina’s contemporary jewellery is featured in the November issue of the iconic Vogue magazine.

She has recently completed an exciting collaboration with photographer Mick Payton and on the back of her appearance at the prestigious Goldsmiths North 2024 show, she was also featured in The Jeweller magazine.

Ellina also was recently recognised in the Rising Star category at The National Association of Jewellers Awards 2024.

She said: “Balancing my business, family, and studies has been one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences of my life.

“I am deeply grateful to everyone who has supported me throughout this process. I couldn’t have done it without the incredible people I’ve met along the way – my tutors, peers, and amazing friends.

“This journey, began in 2016 when i signed up for my foundation year. It has been life-changing, and I never thought I’d reach the heights I’m at today.

“Just weeks ago, I was honoured to win another award, recognized for my brand’s innovation and vision. This recognition has been so encouraging, and I look forward to the future with excitement!”

Pictured: Ellina Pollitt and Leah Vanono