Queen Margaret University (QMU) graduate, Shaun Bell, has won the prestigious title of ‘Outstanding Young Communicator’ at the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) Scotland PRide Awards 2014.

This national award recognises the achievements, performance and excellent work of young professionals in Scotland’s public relations industry who are making a valuable contribution to the organisations they work for and showing considerable promise as future leaders.

Shaun was praised by the judges for being ‘a breath of fresh air’, for demonstrating strong campaign results and having a clear passion for PR.

Shaun graduated from QMU, Edinburgh, in 2011, with a first-class BA (hons) Drama & Theatre Arts with specialism in Arts Journalism.  He is now an Account Manager at Stripe Communications in Edinburgh, where he delivers strategic PR and social media campaigns for clients such as John Lewis, the Scottish Government and Young Scot.

Commenting on his award success and QMU degree, Shaun Bell said: “I’m incredibly proud to receive this award and recognition from CIPR Scotland. It’s a privilege to work with clients that I’m truly passionate about. Using public relations to campaign for change and help improve the lives of people in my country is what gets me out of bed in the morning.”

“I know my studies at QMU prepared me for the transition to the working world. Doing your utmost to gain professional work experience and continually thinking beyond the walls of the lecture theatre gives new graduates the greatest competitive edge. The skills and knowledge you gain at university can be your greatest asset when starting life after your degree.”