Old Alleynian Association Alumni Awards

We are delighted to announce this year's winners of the Old Alleynian Alumni Awards. Your nominations embraced a diverse range of contributions and professions including lawyers, medics, academics, campaigners and journalists many of whom are leaders in their particular fields.

The judges were faced with a very difficult choice indeed, but the final awards were, it was unanimously agreed, given to truly worthy recipients.

The Young Alumni Achievement Award (Under 40) 

Hammad Jeilani (09-16) and Chris Law (11-16)

Hammad and Chris, both NHS doctors, co-founded their startup, Apian, in 2020. The company integrates drones, ground robotics, and software automation into healthcare systems to make medical logistics invisible and intelligent.

Currently operating the world's most prominent drone delivery service in central London for the NHS, Apian has successfully pioneered medical flights across the UK and Ireland.

By creating autonomous logistics networks, the company is revolutionising how samples, medicines and supplies move through healthcare systems, ensuring staff have what they need, in the right place at the right time, so they can focus on patient care.

Lifetime Achievement Award (Over 40)

Chiwetel Ejiofor CBE (90-95)

Chiwetel Ejiofor is an actor, writer, and director, acclaimed for his powerful performances across film, television, and stage. A keen actor whilst at Dulwich College, he joined the National Youth Theatre aged 16, followed by training at London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA).

He made his film debut in Steven Spielberg’s Amistad (1997) but gained broader recognition with roles in films like Dirty Pretty Things (2002) and Kinky Boots (2005). His career reached new heights with his portrayal of Solomon Northup in 12 Years a Slave (2013), earning him widespread acclaim, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor and a BAFTA win.

Chiwetel has also appeared in major films such as Doctor Strange (2016), The Martian (2015), and voiced Scar in Disney’s The Lion King (2019).

In addition to acting, he wrote, starred and directed The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind (2019)and Rob Peace (2024), showcasing his talent behind the camera.

Renowned for his versatility, depth, and emotional intensity, Ejiofor remains one of the most respected actors of his generation. He was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2015 for services to drama.

Photo credit: Sarah Dunn