Students from the Department of Psychology won multiple prizes at the Young Enterprise Regional Final 2026.
The Young Enterprise Regional Final, which took place at the Sister Building, Manchester on Tuesday 24 February, saw teams from universities across the north-west compete at the event and showcase their businesses.
Students had previously set up businesses as part of the Young Enterprise Start Up Programme, which gives university students the opportunity to develop employability skills and prepare for the world of work, by setting up and running their own student company for up to 12 months.
At the Young Enterprise Regional Final, students showcased their businesses at stalls during the event and pitched their business to a panel of judges who questioned them on a range of aspects such as the growth potential and sustainability aspects, as well as considering the business idea as a whole.
Mind Light won the Best Presentation Award
Two teams of students from the University of Liverpool presented their businesses, including Mind Light, who won the Best Presentation Award.
This was a fantastic achievement and reflected their incredible and hard work developing their brand of mindfulness candles.
A team of Psychology students also presented their business called All Kinds of Friends - an educational book that aims to help children break down barriers and foster greater understanding and inclusion of children who are hearing impaired.
Following their presentation, the team won the award for Marketing Excellence and also secured a place in the next round of the competition at the Young Enterprise National Final on 20 May 2026.
Elaine Fairhurst and Dr Caroline Hands received the University Ambassador Award
Department of Psychology lecturer Dr Caroline Hands - who leads the 398 Work Experience module - and Psychology Careers Advisor Elaine Fairhurst also received the University Ambassador Award.
Speaking about the team's successes at the Young Enterprise Regional Final, Elaine Fairhurst said: "Both teams represented PSYC398 exceptionally well, demonstrating creativity, innovation and entrepreneurial spirit throughout.
"We are incredibly proud of their success - please join us in congratulating them on these well-deserved achievements!"