Introducing your 2021 winners

Dr Ali Baghdadi

Dr Ali Baghdadi

Ali (MSc Computing 1977, PhD 1979) has always been a keen learner. This curiosity drove him to Imperial where he founded Aptec. He later edited 20 educational movies for Interactive Information Systems and produced several major films including Yomeddine, which went to the Cannes Film Festival in 2018.

Discover Ali's story

Dr Paul Atherton

Dr Paul Atherton

Paul (PhD Physics 1978) co-founded his first company, Queensgate Instruments, while at Imperial. He planned on pursuing an academic career, but that all changed when he got a call from NASA, who wanted to use his technology. After selling the company in 2000, he continues to support and mentor start-ups at UK universities.

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Highly commended

Divya Gupta

Divya Gupta

Divya (MSc Management 2013) is the co-founder and CEO of momzjoy.com. As India’s leading maternity and nursing fashion brand, they aim to empower expecting and new mothers by making them feel beautiful, happy and confident. The business was awarded The Best Maternity Wear Brand in India four years in a row.

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Manuel Pinuela

Dr Manuel Piñuela

Growing up, Manuel (PhD Electrical and Electronics Engineering 2013) always wanted to be an inventor. Fast-forward 30 years and he has launched three start-ups bringing innovative technology to the market. His latest venture, Cultivo, is benefitting landowners and investors globally by using capital to restore the natural world around us.

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Alumni Entrepreneur Awards 2021

Recognising bold and innovative founders

New for 2021, this award recognises and celebrates innovative and creative alumni entrepreneurs who can demonstrate commercial success, growth and impact.

Learn more about the Alumni Entrepreneur Award

Lasting legacy

"For me, life is about leaving the world a better place for my children and grandchildren and everyone in it. If I can do that through my activities, that would be wonderful."

Dr Paul Atherton, Alumni Entrepreneur Award Winner 2021

Distinguished Alumni Award Winner 2021
Emerging Alumni Leader Award Winners 2021
Alumni Spotlight event banner
  • Event recording

Hear from our 2021 Alumni Entrepreneur Award winners

Dr Ali Baghdadi and Dr Paul Atherton joined us to explore themes of leadership and business in an Alumni Spotlight event. Watch now.