Colleagues, alumni, friends and family gathered at the Soho Poly in London to celebrate the launch of the new Bobby Hanlon Prize Fund which recognises outstanding work in music business management. The Fund was set up by Bobby Hanlon’s partner Dr Felix von Reiswitz and is in memory of the life and impact of Westminster alumnus Bobby Hanlon.
Bobby Hanlon graduated from Westminster’s Music Business Management MA course under the supervision of music industry practitioner and Reader in Knowledge Exchange Dr Sally Anne Gross in 2016 and went on to become a music manager and advocate for social justice, continuously championing equality and fairness within the music industry.
The prize was awarded to Charmaine Toh, a 2025 graduate of the Music Business Management MA course, who received £1,000 along with an additional £500 bursary for her research that reflects Bobby’s belief in using music as a platform for equity and representation. Charmaine’s thesis examined how religious and cultural conservatism shapes LGBTQ+ representation in Malaysia’s live music industry and the strategies artists and industry stakeholders employ to navigate these constraints.
The launch event brought the music business community together to honour Hanlon’s legacy and introduce the prize that reflects the values he advocated for in the music industry. At the event, Dr Gross spoke about Hanlon’s compassion, professionalism and the positive influence he had within the course’s community.
Nancy Wellman, Development Officer at the University, said: “The Bobby Hanlon Prize stands as a testament to the value of inclusion and the visibility of underrepresented voices within the music community. By honouring Charmaine’s exceptional work, the prize highlights the innovation and dedication emerging from our students. Awards like this play a vital role in building students’ confidence and strengthening their belief in the importance of their work. They help connect academic exploration with professional practice, ensuring that talented individuals are recognised, encouraged and supported as they move forward in their careers.”
Dr Gross said: “We all had such a lovely time at the launch of the prize. It was so nice to see so many friends and alumni from across the music industry. Bobby was an outstanding student and alumnus who embodied the values of the Music Business Management MA course. This prize is especially meaningful as it celebrates inclusivity, equality and the progression toward a more socially inclusive music industry.”
Charmaine Toh added: “I’m truly honoured to receive the Bobby Hanlon Prize. It’s especially meaningful to be recognised through an award that celebrates Bobby Hanlon’s legacy and his dedication to uplifting minority voices. His work has created space for so many diverse perspectives to be heard and it’s inspiring to see that commitment continue through this prize and the support it gives to students and their work.”
The new prize directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4: Quality Education, 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth and 10: Reduced Inequalities. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Learn more about Music courses at the University of Westminster.
To find out how you or your organisation can support the University of Westminster, contact the Development Team.
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