Charan Sekhon MBE (MSc Energy Conservation and the Environment 1997)
Senior Environment Officer for the Environment Agency and has led environmental projects and EDI-related projects in East Anglia
Charan Sekhon MBE has demonstrated exceptional dedication to environmental protection and community service.
Born in Punjab, India, Charan's early life in a rural village with limited access to education motivated him to create the SEVA Trust. As the Founder and Chairman, he has made significant contributions to education, health, welfare, and environmental initiatives in the UK and India.
Charan’s commitment to public service is further exemplified by more than 20 years’ experience as a local councillor. His involvement extends to various youth, charity, and sports projects, including fundraising campaigns and participating in the London Marathon to support individuals with disabilities. Furthermore, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Charan led a team of volunteers in Bedfordshire, Milton Keynes, and Hertfordshire to assist hundreds of vulnerable families, rough-sleepers, and isolated international students with food and essential items. His efforts particularly supported Cranfield University students and the local community.
The relentless dedication to charity and environmental causes, and support for his local community earned Charan an MBE in the 2022 New Year’s Honours List. He has also been recognised with several national and regional awards, including the ‘British Asian Pride of Britain Award’ at the House of Commons, the ‘Volunteer Fundraiser Award’ by the Papworth Trust, and the Cambridge and Bedford Mayor’s ‘Citizen of the Year’ Award for outstanding community and charity services.
Charan's exemplary career and personal life reflect his unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on communities and society as a whole.
What inspired you to pursue the career path you eventually chose?
My father, who was an educator, was my role model, and his values have always inspired me. He encouraged me to seek a career that made a positive impact on others rather than focusing solely on financial stability. After completing my Master’s in Physics in India, I joined Cranfield University to study Environmental Sciences, motivated by a desire to contribute to protecting and enhancing our environment. Later, I founded an international NGO, SEVA Trust UK, with the aim of helping others in education, health, the environment, and social welfare. This work has been my way of honouring my father’s vision.
What is your favourite memory from Cranfield University?
One of my fondest memories is the annual gathering of the Asian Students Association and a memorable trip to Leicester for the Diwali celebrations, one of the biggest and most vibrant festivals outside of India.
Do you have a favourite quote, motto, or piece of advice for new graduates?
Aim high, work hard, and pursue your dreams. Remember the people who supported you to reach this point, and the value of the education you’ve gained at one of the world’s top universities. Embrace your duty, not just to your career, but to the community, and remain loyal to the values that guide you.
Finally, what does it mean to you to win this award?
I feel truly humbled and honoured. Cranfield holds a very special place in my life; I see it as a hub of world-class education and research. The University played a significant role in shaping my career, and through the alumni network, I’ve been able to stay connected with colleagues and friends worldwide. This award means so much to me, especially to my family — and to my father, who, though no longer with us, would have been so proud of this moment. This recognition brings a responsibility to do even more, to strive for better, not just for myself but for others. I’ll keep pushing forward on this journey, with the wonderful support and guidance I’ve received along the way.
Peter Vale (MSc Water Pollution Control Technology 1995)
Carbon & Circular Economy Architect, Severn Trent
Working at the interface between research and solution delivery Peter Vale is an exceptional leader who ensures that innovative technologies help solve water treatment and resource management challenges.
Peter has played a formative role in the implementation of many technologies which are now to be found in operation worldwide. His current area of focus is on developing and evaluating technologies that will deliver low carbon, low energy, material recovery treatment flowsheets that will help Severn Trent deliver its net zero commitments.
His leadership of the wastewater research portfolio at Severn Trent has seen the development of the tools and technologies required to make the idea of energy-neutral wastewater treatment a reality. Delivering this vision has involved taking an international view of the innovation landscape. Peter is a genuine influencer and thought leader within the European water sector, having played a prominent role in several EU-funded projects. He has represented Severn Trent on a number of key international research programmes and has developed strong industry-academic partnerships.
Peter’s wider engagement with the sector is reflected in his commitment to nurturing the next generation of engineers and technologists. He is a mentor for Severn Trent’s CIWEM training scheme and supports a scholarship programme by mentoring engineering students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
