Student receives BBC award for war relief effort
A Glasgow Caledonian University student who donated ambulances to help refugees in Ukraine and other war zones has received a BBC award.
Umran Ali Javaid was featured tonight in Scotland’s People 2022, a BBC One Scotland celebration of people who have committed extraordinary acts of kindness.
Presented by Jackie Bird, the programme highlighted people across the country who have gone above and beyond to help those around them.
Earlier this year, Umran, an International Tourism and Events student, bought an ambulance and drove it to the Polish-Ukrainian border to help refugees fleeing the Russian invasion.
He has previously delivered more than 30 second-hand ambulances to conflict zones in Burma, Syria, Iraq, and Yemen.
Umran, who received the award during a lecture, said: "I never expected that I would be considered for an award, as I don't think I make much of a difference.
"One ambulance can only help a couple of hundred civilians but tens of thousands need help during war.
"That said, I'm humbled and very thankful to all my classmates, lecturers and staff at GCU for always being supportive."
Dr Nick Davies, lecturer in Tourism and Events, who presented Umran with the award, said: "Umran is an excellent student and an inspiration to the whole of the GCU community.
"When I first heard of his ongoing trips to Ukraine and other countries, affected by war, I was amazed. He is so modest and was only letting us know because there was a small chance he may have missed a lecture.
"He has gone above and beyond in his dedication to the Common Good. We are extremely proud of him."