It recognises outstanding contribution to UAL community

We are so thrilled to share that our Halls Life content creator at Glassyard, Hafsah Awan (she/her), has been nominated for an Arts Award 2026. 👏

Hafsah is currently in her third year of Fine Art at Chelsea College of the Arts. During her time living in halls, she has also worked with the Halls Life team as a content creator. 

For the last two years she has injected her fun personality and creativity in the content she has produced for the team and she has now been nominated for an Arts Students' Union Award in the Outstanding Contribution to Student Community award category. 

Winners will be announced at a celebratory event next month on Wednesday 20 May, however she is already a winner in our eyes! 😍

Ahead of the ceremony, we caught up with Hafsah to ask her several questions about her award nomination and why she loves working with the Halls Life team. Take a read below! 

Get to know content creator Hafsah 🤩

1. What have you enjoyed about being a content creator for Halls Life?

I've enjoyed the sense of connection it creates between other students. Through this role, I’ve seen how even small interactions, whether through a reel, a tour, or an event can create a sense of familiarity. That familiarity instantly helps people feel more comfortable and supported, especially in a new environment where everything can feel unfamiliar.

Being a part of events and capturing memories has been incredibly meaningful. Over time, I’ve been able to see friendships form and grow, and it’s really special to know that I’ve played a role in capturing those memories. It’s about creating something people can look back on later, and these become part of how students remember their time at university. 

More than anything, this role feels like a bridge between students and staff. It makes things feel less intimidating, and I think that is what makes a difference, being someone people can reach out to, that sense of trust and community is what I found most rewarding. 

2. Why do you think students should be a content creator while living in UAL halls?

It's a flexible and rewarding the role. As a 3rd year student, having a job that allows you to choose when you create content makes it much easier to balance alongside your studies. You’re part of the events, constantly meeting new people and creating content in a way that feels enjoyable.

I’ve also enjoyed the creative side of the role, which is having the freedom to experiment with videos and posters. I always add my personal touch to these and include niche humour, which makes the process really fun, but it’s also taught me how to communicate visually and understand the audience I’m designing for. 

University can sometimes feel isolating, especially with its heavy workload, but being involved with Halls Life in any way gives you a reason to step out, engage with others, and be part of the community. If you’re someone who wants to put themselves out there, it gives you the supportive space to do exactly that. On top of that, the team is incredibly supportive and understanding, which makes a big difference when you’re juggling many responsibilities. Overall, it’s a role that not only fits around your life as a student but genuinely enhances it. 

3. What was your favourite piece of content you produced for Halls Life this year?

My favorite piece of content I created was my room tour video. It was really special because I was able to share a space I’ve made my own over time. I created it right at the start of the year, when most students are moving in and looking for inspiration.

I hear many students and parents are often concerned about things like space and storage, so I genuinely wanted the video to be helpful more than anything else. A lot of people enjoyed that video, and I think it was because it felt natural and genuine to me while filming. I think authenticity is what people connect with the most. 

4. How do you feel after hearing the news that you were nominated for an Arts Awards in your role as a content creator? 

Being nominated means a lot to me. It’s the fact that someone took the time to recognise my work and felt that it had a positive impact on their experience. It reminds me that even the small things, whether it’s a conversation or an event, can genuinely make a difference to someone. I feel incredibly grateful to be considered in this way; it’s less about the outcome and more about knowing I’ve helped create a sense of community and support for others.

🫶 Good luck Hafsah, the Halls Life team is cheering for you to take out the top award 🫶

What are the Arts Awards? 🏆

The Arts Awards are a joint endeavour between Arts Students' Union and UAL's Learning and Teaching Directorate. This annual collaboration recognises and celebrates the impact that all UAL students and staff have on teaching, learning and the student experience via a range of award categories.

Want to work with the Halls Life team? 👀

Our award-winning Halls Life team is now asking for students to register their interest in work with them in several paid committee roles from September. These roles will them to deliver an exceptional student experience across our halls.

Please note - these positions will only be eligible to students who will want to live in a UAL halls of residence in 2026/27. Find out more information in the link below.