In June, Product Design student Sarah McAnallen competed in the semi-finals of the annual Santander Universities Entrepreneurship Awards in Glasgow. Up against intense competition from the other semi-finalists, Sarah was delighted to be chosen to progress to the national finals in London in November.
Enterprise & Entrepreneurship Manager at UUSU Enterprise Centre Chris Shannon, who accompanied Sarah to the semi-finals, told us:
Sarah’s achievement is amazing. Out of over 1,000 entrepreneurs involved in the competition from students at universities across the UK, Sarah has made it to the final 18 after being chosen as one of six students to represent the North region in the London Final. The standard of business ‘pitches’ at the semi-finals was incredibly high and she was up against some really tough competition. We’re delighted for her.
Sarah’s business focusses on creating tools to help people live more independent lives. Sarah’s first product the ‘Ezi-Sock’ allows people with restricted ability to put on their own socks with one hand, while in a seated position and without the need to bend down. Sarah’s invention is made completely of fabric and can easily be stored in a handbag or suitcase for use while on the move.
For more information about the Santander Universities Entrepreneurship Awards visit: santander.co.uk/uk/santander-universities/entrepreneurship-business and to keep up to date with other Ulster University student entrepreneurs follow UUSU Enterprise Centre on Twitter: @uusu_enterprise