Students from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) have been recognised with two of the travel and tourism industry’s highest student honours after receiving national awards at the Institute of Travel & Tourism (ITT) Summer Party and Awards, held on the Terrace at the House of Commons.
Hosted by broadcaster and journalist Dame Ayesha Hazarika, the prestigious event brought together representatives from ITT Centres of Excellence and leading figures from across the UK travel and tourism industry to celebrate outstanding student achievement.
UWTSD student Wiktoria Kuciarska received the Bella Rangel Callan Institute of Travel & Tourism Student of the Year Award 2026, while Simon Canby was named UWTSD ITT Centre of Excellence Student of the Year.
The awards recognise students who have demonstrated exceptional commitment, leadership and contribution to the travel, tourism, and events sector throughout their studies.
Wiktoria, who studied International Leisure and Tourism Management , joined UWTSD through Clearing after visiting the University’s campus while studying Travel and Tourism at Merthyr College. During her time at UWTSD, she embraced every opportunity available, serving as the University’s ABTA Student Representative and taking part in educational visits to London, Paris, and Malaysia, as well as industry placements with Universal in Florida.
She also played a key role in organising UWTSD’s first House Party networking event.
Simon, who studied Hospitality and Catering at Coleg Sir Gâr before progressing to UWTSD, chose to specialise in events management to further develop his leadership and management skills. Alongside fellow student Carys Davies, he regularly works at major festivals and events across Wales and even took time away from working at the Royal Welsh Show to attend the awards ceremony.
Fellow UWTSD Events students and ITT Ambassadors Nia Moores and Carys Davies were also invited by event organisers Dellar Davies to support the delivery of the House of Commons event, having impressed at the ITT Conference in Málaga. The opportunity gave them valuable first-hand experience of working at a prestigious parliamentary event alongside industry professionals.
The students have been central to many of UWTSD’s flagship initiatives, including organising and hosting the record-breaking Future You: Wales to the World careers event at Swansea Building Society Arena, which attracted 670 delegates. Nia has also built an impressive portfolio of industry experience, working at the Principality Stadium, ICC Wales at Celtic Manor, the Swansea Arena VIP Lounge and Au Vodka.
Wiktoria said: “I am absolutely delighted and incredibly honoured to have received the award. I couldn’t be more grateful for this recognition. It reflects the support, encouragement, and opportunities I’ve been fortunate to receive throughout my journey.
“It was also a privilege to attend the Summer Party at the House of Commons. Meeting so many inspiring people, celebrating with fellow professionals and being part of such a memorable event made the experience even more special.
“A huge thank you to everyone involved for making it such an unforgettable occasion. I had such an amazing time and truly appreciate this incredible honour.”
Jacqui Jones, Programme Director for International Travel, Tourism, Events and Festivals at UWTSD, said: “To see Wiktoria recognised nationally as the Bella Rangel Callan ITT Student of the Year and Simon named our ITT Centre of Excellence Student of the Year is a tremendous achievement and richly deserved. Both students have consistently demonstrated professionalism, commitment, and a willingness to embrace every opportunity available to them.
“What makes these awards even more special is that they reflect the wider culture within our programmes. Wiktoria, Simon, Nia, and Carys have all immersed themselves in industry experiences, from international study visits and placements to leading major events such as Future You: Wales to the World. They are outstanding ambassadors for UWTSD, and we are incredibly proud to see them recognised by the industry at such a prestigious national event.”
The success of UWTSD’s students reflects the University’s growing reputation as a leader in travel, tourism, and events education. As one of the UK’s recognised ITT Centres of Excellence, UWTSD works closely with industry partners to provide students with exceptional professional opportunities, international experiences and hands-on learning that prepares them for successful careers.
From placements with global organisations and educational visits overseas to organising major industry events and networking with senior professionals, students are encouraged to develop the skills, confidence and industry connections that set them apart. The latest national awards further reinforce UWTSD’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of travel, tourism, and events professionals.
