The Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards has named TUI’s Miranda Simms the 2024 Retail, Hospitality & Tourism Apprentice of the Year. Miranda was nominated by the University of Exeter, where she is completing a Level 7 Senior People Professional apprenticeship alongside an MSc in Human Resource Management through TUI Apprenticeships. This acknowledgment highlights Miranda’s exceptional commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and her inspiring personal journey.
TUI’s Wellbeing and Inclusion Lead Miranda Simms said: “Receiving this award is a true honour and a testament to the resilience and support that has guided my journey. I hope my story inspires others facing challenges to embrace learning and work toward creating inclusive, supportive workplaces.”
The Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards, founded in 2015, celebrate multicultural British apprentices, along with the employers and learning providers who support them. These awards aim to showcase talent and diversity within multicultural communities, recognising individuals who work hard to overcome challenges in pursuit of their career and personal development goals.
The University of Exeter nominated Miranda for her outstanding dedication to advancing DEI and her personal perseverance. Having become a mother early in life, Miranda initially set aside her educational ambitions. Instead, she built over 20 years of industry experience before returning to formal education. Her non-traditional route did not deter her but strengthened her drive for lifelong learning and professional growth.
Head of Apprenticeships at the University of Exeter, Dr Sarah Thompson, said: “Miranda exemplifies the qualities of resilience, dedication, and a commitment to creating inclusive spaces. She embodies the spirit of the Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards, and we are thrilled to see her receive this recognition.”