08/09/2026
Celebrating our students!
We are delighted to announce that Danielle Oswald has been awarded the Davida Fortinsky Award for Outstanding Dementia Studies 2026 for her achievements on our MSc Advanced Dementia Studies.
The award recognises students who demonstrate academic excellence, independently pursue advanced knowledge in dementia care, and show a commitment to improving the lives of people living with dementia and their families.
Danielle is a Care Manager in Johannesburg, South Africa, and has used her learning throughout the MSc to make a real difference in practice.
Her MSc project explored the small, everyday interactions that happen before a person living with dementia is invited to take part in an activity. Her work highlighted how small changes in the way we communicate can support choice, build trust and encourage meaningful engagement.
The award is sponsored by Professor Richard Fortinsky in memory of his late mother, Davida Fortinsky, who lived with dementia. Professor Fortinsky and his family selected Danielle as this year’s recipient and join us in congratulating her.
đź‘Ź A huge congratulations to Danielle on this very well-deserved achievement!
