Take part in our Chancellor Photo Competition

Are you interested in creating a creative portrait that extends the notion of what an official portrait could be? 

Throughout her career, Nat has been guided by people-focused values and principles that align with our own. She is:

• A social entrepreneur and broadcaster
• Experienced in business leadership
• Committed to using her knowledge and connections to provide students with tangible, transformative support to achieve their career ambitions

She now serves as Chancellor – a role that embodies leadership and inspiration. A University Chancellor is a figurehead who represents and champions the University, motivating others and fostering pride in its mission. Each Chancellor brings a unique perspective and approach, contributing in ways that reflect their individual strengths and values.

We are looking for a creative portrait that reimagines what an official portrait can be. The image should:

• Showcase the wider work of our Chancellor
• Reflect your voice as a photographer
• Be suitable for display on a wall and for digital use

The University is offering one student the opportunity to work with Nat and Tempest Photography (our graduation portrait partner) to produce the official portrait. While this is a formal commission, Nat wants the brief to remain creative and inspiring.

The competition is open to all current students. The portrait can be taken at one of our campuses or in a studio setting.

How to get involved 

To enter, please submit a 300-word proposal explaining your approach and a portfolio of up to six images showing your creative style. The portrait needs to be able to be hung on a wall and also relevant for digital channels. 

Competition timeline

• 10 December 2025, 4pm: our Chancellor will host an online Q&A session to answer any questions. Please complete this form to register your attendance and receive a link to join the session. You will need to log into your University Microsoft account to register.
• 19 January 2026, by midday: deadline to submit your photography
  portfolios. Please send your submission via this link. Incomplete submissions will not be considered.
• Week of 26 January 2026: a judging panel, including Nat, will review submissions and select the winner.
• 6 February 2026: the selected student will be announced and notified.

The selected student will also need to be available on the following dates: 

• 12 February 2026: meeting with our Chancellor and Tempest to talk through the concept of the portrait and plan locations and props.
• 5 March 2026: test shoot with Natalie and Tempest
• 12 March 2026: final shoot
• 10 April 2026: delivery of the final portrait to the University and Tempest 

Further information

If you have any queries about the application process, please contact the Student Centre through Compass or our Student Hub Live Chat.

Find out more about the competition.

Submit your portfolio here.