London Met launches Rising Star Scholarships News

Kathy Burke, Afua Hirsch and poet Dan Whitlam support London Metropolitan University scholarships for underrepresented and disadvantaged groups.

Date: 24 June 2025

Top UK talents have been announced as sponsors of London Metropolitan University’s new Rising Star scholarship scheme, which will provide full fee scholarships for students from underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds.  

Seven scholarships are available across courses, including Leadership in Communities, Music Business and Creative Writing and English Literature.  

The Kathy Burke Rising Star Scholarship, named for the actor, director and comedian, will fund a student taking Film and Television Studies. Hirsch’s scholarship will fund a Journalism, Film and Television Studies student – an acknowledgement of her work as a former Sky News and Guardian Journalist and as a Royal Society of Literature Fellow.  

Other faces of the scheme include composer Ayanna Witter-Johnson, poet Dan Whitlam, rapper Jords, and singer Hak Baker.  

Successful students will have their tuition fees paid for three years, receive mentoring from academics and industry professionals and access networking and internship opportunities.  

The scholarships were announced at the inauguration of the University’s new Vice-Chancellor, Professor Julie Hall, at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium, where Hall renewed the university’s commitment to supporting people from underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds.  

Empowering people and transforming futures

Professor Julie Hall, Vice-Chancellor of London Metropolitan University, said: "London Metropolitan University has always championed people from diverse backgrounds. We’re passionate about empowering every voice and fostering a community where everyone can reach their full potential. The Rising Star scholarship scheme further supports this and it’s great to receive the support of some of London’s biggest talents in achieving this mission. 

"I’m proud to launch these new scholarships, which are rooted in our mission to empower people and transform futures. At London Metropolitan University, we believe talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. These awards are about closing that gap. They will support students from all backgrounds to achieve their ambitions, and I look forward to welcoming the successful candidates into our wonderful community ."

Hak Baker, London-based singer and rapper, said: "I’m so pleased to be supporting this great project from London Metropolitan University, which is all about turning passion into opportunity for students. Breaking into the creative world - whether it’s music, film, or TV - can feel impossible when you don’t have the right support or connections, especially if you’re from a working-class background. 

"The scholarships will break down barriers, support new voices and allow young people to reach their potential. It’s about giving talented young people the chance to be seen, to be heard, and to show what they’re capable of. When you invest in voices that usually get overlooked, you’re not just helping individuals - you’re shaping a more honest, diverse future for the whole industry.” 

Applications for the Rising Star Scholarships are now open.