E.ON Next continues support as headline sponsor of the 2026 Queer Student Awards

At E.ON Next, we are dedicated to creating an environment where colleagues feel safe, respected and empowered to be themselves. We actively support LGBTQIA+ employees through inclusive policies, colleague networks and a culture that values diversity and belonging. This commitment extends beyond our organisation, as we work to support students and young people from LGBTQIA+ backgrounds by backing initiatives that promote visibility, opportunity and safer, more inclusive spaces.

Our continued partnership with the Queer Student Awards reflects our belief in the importance of recognising resilience, celebrating progress and helping to build a future where every individual can thrive without barriers.

The finalists of The 2026 Queer Student Awards, in association with E.ON Next, have been announced with the work of 26 individuals and groups from UK schools, colleges, universities, workplaces and charities shortlisted by a judging panel of student recruitment industry experts, LGBTQ+ professionals in addition to previous winners and finalists of the awards.

The QSA2026 shortlist recognising ‘Queer Leaders’ and ‘Safer Spaces’ covers 10 categories including Activist, Community Leader, Safe Space and Unsung Hero.

Current Rising Star, QSA judge and E.ON Next Degree Project Manager Apprentice, Matthew Barrett, said: "I am delighted to have been involved in judging this year's nominations for the 2026 Queer Student Awards. The range of initiatives in the nominations speak volumes about the creativity, commitment, and care that is being driven by our LGBTQIA+ student community. What stood out to me the most was how progressive the nominations were. Students are not only responding to need, but actively challenging systems, shifting attitudes, and creating meaningful change. From localised groupings to national initiatives, each nomination demonstrated a shared determination to push things forward. It was clear that this work is often driven by courage, resilience, and a belief that safer, more inclusive futures are possible. Choosing winners was incredibly difficult given the strength and impact of those nominated. It has been a privilege to witness just how much powerful work is happening across our different award categories."

QSA2026 will take place at Whitworth Locke in Manchester on the final day of Pride month, Tuesday 30th June. Guests and finalists attending will once again be greeted by student journalist, and the inaugural winner of Role Model: Student, Niamh Brownhill on the pink carpet with a selection of local LGBTQIA+ performers and speeches focused on this year’s event theme ‘Queer Resilience’.

QSA Founder and Event Director, Steve Keith, said: “From my own experience growing up gay in a small rural village, I know what it feels like 'not to fit in'. Not fitting in led to being bullied and to feeling isolated in my local community. Every day became a reminder that I was 'different'. What could have broken me, made me better. Over time it has helped me to develop my own brand of QUEER RESILIENCE; something I think every LGBTQ+ person has their own version of. It has been an incredibly tough year for the LGBTQIA+ community. Our theme recognises that and we will use this year’s awards celebration to celebrate our finalists who have all still managed to persevere and tackle the adversity they have each faced, head on.”

In addition to the headline partner, others showing their support this year include AstraZeneca (partnering for the sixth consecutive year with two of their employees shortlisted) and longstanding friends of the QSA, Middlesex University via their LGBTQ+ UNISON group (also with their own shortlisted finalists).

More information about the event can be found at thequeerstudentawards.co.uk