The awards ceremony celebrated the success of 15 exceptional students with the overall Student of the Year award going to Alexander Rose from the University of the Arts, London. The 19 year old arts student impressed the judges team with his innovative social action and campaigns work addressing many of the social problems prevalent amongst young people living, in urban areas.

Putting his creative and design skill to work Rose used talent to produce stylish T-shirts and  accessories tailored to the young market which carry a socially progressive message, of inclusion among a groups often marginalized by the educational system.

Government advisor on youth issues
An adviser to government policy maker on youth issues, Rose shared his wisdom and insight on addressing the issue of unrest in many urban areas, with PM Gordon Brown earlier this year, when he was invited to 10 Downing Street.

Alexander Rose was amongst the thousands of student nominations received from universities across the country and beat stiff competition from the UK's best Oxbridge graduates as well as talented youngsters who applied to the scheme from some of the newer universities.

 He has also recently been awarded an Anne Frank Award for Humanitarianism for his work on campaigning within inner city areas.

The Humanitarianism award was another commendation for Rose's work in using art and design education to address the social exclusion and urban violence young people within less affluent areas are susceptible to.

This year's Xcel award winners have in many instances had to overcome personal and physical hurdles to achieve their own academic success. Their stories of achievement will Xcel hope, be an inspiration for students from all backgrounds.

Overcoming challenges of British urban life
Rose is one of five children, who grew up on what he described as a 'rough council estate'. His mother, a care worker, is his inspiration.

Although brought up in a loving and stable home, Rose has had to deal with and overcome the challenges of life on an urban estate.
The high crime rate and social deprivation meant that the culture of violence in the area where he lived meant that he was nearly drawn into a gang.

Xcel reported that Alex grew up on an estate, and went to a school, where carrying a knife to "protect yourself" was the norm. Sadly, five of his school friends have been killed by gangs.
Despite this Rose's ability to pursue a successful educational career, while giving back to the community he comes from is an inspiration of what a person can achieve, despite his challenging circumstances.

Kelly Rowland supports of Xcel

Xcel's Editor, Emma Salt, said ‘Alexander Rose is the embodiment of Xcel. His ‘can do' attitude and courageous approach to create change, in the face of extreme personal adversity, is an inspiration to us all.'
The Xcel Student of the Year Awards were presented by former Blue Peter presenter, Konnie Huq. Other celebrity guests included; Deputy Major of London, Richard Barnes; Rudolph Walker aka Patrick Trueman from Eastenders; Stephen Williams, Liberal Democrat MP for Bristol West and Kiss DJ, Big Ted.

Xcel Magazine was launched over three years ago with the support of the then Commission for Racial Equality, (now Equality and Human Rights Commission). Xcel's aim is to offer its student readership, from a multi-ethnic background, advice on all aspects of achieving course and career success.

The publication also promotes student lifestyle and celebrates the work of successful role models. Sponsors of this work include Barclays Capital,  The Equalities and Human Rights Commission, E-on UK careers, The Times Online, Pride Magazine and Kiss 100 radio.

The Destiny's Child star, Kelly Rowland made an exclusive appearance an offered her support to the first ever national student awards scheme by performing at this event, which celebrates the success of students from a multi-ethnic background.