The University of Edinburgh selected Moray House alumna, Sabrina Tickle, to receive the Being Edinburgh Alumni Award, which honours individuals who have had a significant positive effect on their communities. "University gave me direction, purpose and opportunities" Sabrina Tickle, a 2015 BA in Education Studies alum, is a dedicated charity and youth leader. The prestigious Being Edinburgh Alumni Award acknowledges her work addressing poverty and inequality. Sabrina received her award during a graduation ceremony at McEwan Hall on July 10.Presented by Chris Cox, Vice-Principal of Philanthropy and Advancement, the award honours graduates who have made significant contributions to their communities and professions. Sabrina was selected as the winner through a public vote involving students, staff and alumni."My time at the University of Edinburgh was a real turning point in my life and set me on a completely different path. It wasn't a straightforward journey and there were challenges along the way, but university gave me direction, purpose and opportunities that changed my life," Sabrina said. Sabrina’s impressive career spans over 15 years, focusing on supporting children, young people and families in Edinburgh facing challenging circumstances. Raised in an environment marked by poverty and instability, her personal experiences inspired her to make a difference in the lives of others. "An inspiring example to our students, graduates and the wider community"Sabrina left school at 16 and entered higher education at 25.After graduating, she co-founded The Wee Haven Youth (WHY) Project with fellow graduate Kevin Brown. This grassroots organisation has become a vital resource in south-west Edinburgh, providing youth work, wellbeing support, enrichment opportunities and pathways to employment for over 120 young people each week. Sabrina commented, "If someone reading this is in a similar place, I'd want them to know that things can change in ways you might not expect and that there is always a way forward."In addition to her role with The WHY Project, Sabrina actively volunteers with the Turn Your Life Around (TYLA) partnership and serves as a trustee for Fresh Start Edinburgh, a charity that assists those who have experienced homelessness in establishing their new homes.Professor Carol Campbell, Head of School, Moray House School of Education and Sport, said, “I send my warmest congratulations to Sabrina Tickle on receiving the Being Edinburgh Alumni Award. This is a richly deserved recognition of her exceptional contribution to children, young people and families, and of the lasting difference she has made in communities across Edinburgh. Sabrina’s journey is one of remarkable resilience, determination and purpose. Through co-founding The WHY Project, she has created a trusted and welcoming space where young people can access support, build confidence and develop meaningful relationships. Her ability to combine practical support with a deeply relational approach is especially inspiring, and her work reflects the transformative power of education, community and care. Moray House is immensely proud to count Sabrina among its alumni, and her achievements embody values that are central to our mission. She is an inspiring example to our students, graduates and the wider community.”We are all so proud of Sabrina and her incredible work within the community. Congratulations Sabrina, and all the best for the future. We look forward to hearing about it!Related information The WHY project Being Edinburgh Award Tags Alumni Awards and funding Celebrations and ceremonies Children and young people Education news This article was published on Thursday 16 July 2026
