IMI Annual Dinner and Awards 2026
Learner of the Year Award Winner
This award is aimed at learners who have made exceptional achievements, and who have shown dedication to their professional development and learning.
Congratulations to our Learner of the Year 2026 winner
Hollie King from Bridgwater College
A multiple national and European junior drag bike champion, Hollie combines elite-level racing with exemplary college performance, maintaining high attendance, top IMI exam results, and a professional work ethic.
Respected for her maturity and teamwork, she actively supports peers, bridges theory with real-world practice, and inspires others through her dedication, resilience, and passion for automotive engineering.
And the celebrations don't stop there...Hollie has also been awarded the FMI Bursary worth £2,000. The Fellowship of the Motor Industry awards an annual bursary to an individual who has shown passion and dedication to their automotive career. This bursary can be put to use to further their personal and professional development.
Congratulations to our shortlisted nominees for this award...
Abdul Khaksar, Bridgwater College
Abdul Zamir Khaksar is an automotive engineering student at Bridgwater College whose journey reflects resilience, dedication, and leadership. He is a former mechanic with the British Forces and holds a degree in Political Science.
Resettled in the UK in 2024, Abdul has overcome language, cultural, and personal challenges while balancing full-time work and family life.
He demonstrates exceptional professionalism, mentors peers, and inspires others through his perseverance and commitment to learning.
Oleh Kuzma, North Hertfordshire College
Oleh is a Level 1 Automotive Maintenance student at North Hertfordshire College whose journey is defined by resilience, compassion, and determination.
Having fled the war in Ukraine with his family, he retrained from law to automotive engineering, overcoming language barriers, mental health challenges, and financial pressures.
Despite these obstacles, he became a trusted peer mentor and the most motivated student on his course.
Explore more...
Take a look at our other winners from the IMI Annual Dinner and Awards 2026.
This award is sponsored by
Fellowship of the Motor Industry
