Leeds Trinity University awards Honorary Fellowships for contributions to health, journalism, and tech

Dr Tariq Chauhan, Chairman of Beacon Medical Services, is a healthcare leader and firm advocate for social justice, whose career has been dedicated to improving health outcomes and addressing deep-seated inequalities across Yorkshire and the North-West of England. Alongside his professional achievements, Dr Chauhan has a long-standing record of charitable work, focused on improving community health, providing humanitarian relief, and strengthening local support networks.   

Dr Chauhan has actively supported grassroots community organisations across the region, helping fund youth programmes, educational initiatives, and projects aimed at tackling social isolation.  By joining Leeds Trinity’s Honorary Fellows community, Dr Chauhan will continue his strategic partnership with the University, providing invaluable learning opportunities for students preparing for careers in healthcare, policing, social policy, and related fields. 

Fatima Patel, Founder and Editor-in-Chief of the Asian Standard, Asian Sunday and Style Magazine, is one of the most influential voices in British community media. Her work has helped to create a media platform where stories from British South Asian communities are treated as an integral part of the national conversation. Fatima has consistently championed social mobility, civic engagement, and professional development through collaboration with educational institutions, businesses, and public bodies, and has been an inspiration to aspiring female entrepreneurs. 

Fatima has a long-standing relationship with the University, having provided valuable career insights and opportunities to students, and contributed to teaching and community outreach. The Honorary Fellowship recognises her resilience, innovation, and dedication to platforming underrepresented voices. Her work embodies Leeds Trinity’s commitment to supporting people from all backgrounds to achieve their potential. 

Julian Wells, a leader in FinTech and LegalTech, has helped establish Leeds and the surrounding region as a national centre for digital financial innovation, advancing regional economic development and deepening collaboration between businesses and higher education. Julian consistently uses his platform to highlight the role of universities in shaping the region’s future and emphasises the importance of working with institutions to drive inclusive growth and nurture future talent.  

Julian has made a significant contribution to the development and strategic direction of Leeds Trinity’s work in financial technology, offering expert insight into industry needs, employer expectations, and skills demands. Receiving an Honorary Fellowship underpins his sustained commitment to equity, community impact, and inclusive innovation, which are key priority areas of the University. 

Professor Charles Egbu, Vice-Chancellor of Leeds Trinity University said: “I am delighted that Leeds Trinity continues to expand its Honorary Fellows community, and that we are building meaningful relationships with such a range of inspirational individuals.  

“This year’s Fellows have all contributed to the work of the University, earned distinction in their areas of expertise, and inspired our students. They are all leading figures in fields we excel at in our course provision, and we are privileged to enjoy their support and look forward to developing our collaboration further.” 

Leeds Trinity awards Honorary Fellowships to outstanding individuals whose contributions to their sectors and communities reflect the University’s vision, mission, and values. Its Honorary Fellows community now stands at over 60 members, with the three new Fellows set to receive their awards during the University’s Graduation ceremonies on Wednesday 22 and Thursday 23 July.