Young mum proves doubters wrong after receiving university award - The Coventry Observer

Young mum proves doubters wrong after receiving university award

Coventry Editorial 21st May, 2017   0

A YOUNG mum has proved doubters wrong after receiving an award and completing two years at university.

Laura Brindley, 22, was told to forget about her education after giving birth to her son when she was just 18.

The undergraduate is now in her third year of a Biomedical Science degree at Coventry University and has pitched an idea for a medical innovation to the chief executive of a pharmaceutical company.

Just a few weeks after her son Tyler was born, Laura started a foundation degree in Health and Life Sciences at Coventry University College (CUC).




She balanced motherhood, studying and working night shifts as a carer – and went on to get a first class degree.

Laura said she is determined to spread the message to other women that having a child or being a young mum does not have to mean you must give up on your education.


She added: “Society seems to think it is the end of the world, and many people in my position reluctantly give up and accept this fate, but I didn’t let them stop me and I want to empower other women to do the same and realise their dreams and potential.

“I’m always driving to succeed and am passionate about my field.

“I refused to let the most difficult time in my life define me negatively, and rather I let it demonstrate my capability in dealing with the consequences.”

Laura is currently on a placement year working at pharmaceutical company Nemaura Pharma Ltd.

Inspired by her brother’s treatment for a debilitating chronic condition, she came up with an idea for a medical device for a chronic illness. After support from her colleagues, she decided to pitch her idea to the company’s chief executive.

Although she is unable to reveal anything about the innovation, she has already travelled to London, Edinburgh and Germany to speak to collaborators about the idea, which is now in the process of being funded.

In recognition of her achievements and ability to overcome adversity, Laura was awarded the Woman Who…Rising Star in Further Education or Training prize at the Woman Who … Awards ceremony at Coombe Abbey Park.

She said: “The event was such a great experience and I really can’t believe it.”

Judge Sharon Redrobe, from event sponsors Twycross Zoo, said: “Laura was chosen as the winner in this category as she has really pushed herself in the face of adversity.

“Juggling normal life and study with a young family is difficult and she was recognised for her courage, determination and tenacity.”

In support of education, Laura is working to set up a Crest awards scheme at a local secondary school. The project-based awards scheme for the Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) is run by the British Science Association.

Laura also wishes to encourage more women and girls to get involved in science and in order to do so, she has founded a women’s STEM careers society at the university, which will offer a network of support and opportunities.

Ann Green, head of the University’s School of Life Sciences, said: “We are all very proud of Laura’s achievements. She has made a real impact in her university life and while on her placement.

“She is an excellent role model and should be an inspiration to any young women looking to further education or a career in science, technology or maths subjects.”

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