News / Jaya Chakrabarti
Honorary degree for president of Bristol Chamber
The president of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce & Initiative has received an honorary degree.
Jaya Chakrabarti has been awarded a Doctor of Science (DSc) honorary degree by the University of Bristol.
Describing herself as a “digital activist”, Jaya has a passion for using open data and technology for good.
She studied Physics (BSc) and Electronic Materials (MSc) at the University of Bristol before becoming the CEO of tiscreport.org which tackles corruption and modern slavery in supply chains.
In 2014, Jaya was awarded an MBE for services to the City of Bristol and services to the Creative Digital Industries.
And in 2021, she became the first female, ethnic minority president of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce & Initiative since 1823.
Jaya also currently serves as an independent non-executive member on the NHS Integrated Care Board for Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire.
Accepting her honorary degree on August 1, Jaya said: “It is truly an honour and privilege to be here to accept this honorary award at my alma mater today.
In her acceptance speech, Jaya addressed the students graduating and said she wanted to pass on three lessons she had learned.
She continued: “The first lesson is to embrace your failures. The second lesson is – everything is connected. Connect your story with the stories of others.
“And the third lesson is a Call to Arms. You are articulate; You are ambitious; You have tenacity; You are completer finishers; You have agency.
“And you get to decide your story from here on in. Embrace your power.”
Phil Smith, managing director of Business West of which the Bristol Chamber is part of, added: “Jaya’s doctorate from the university is due recognition of her selfless contribution to making Bristol a better place.
“Whether her dedication to fighting the scourge of modern-day slavery or her leadership of Bristol’s campaign to get an elected mayor, Jaya has never been shy of putting her head above the parapet to challenge the status quo.
“She has brought to her term as President of Bristol Chamber of Commerce new perspectives, healthy challenge, and a sense of fun.”
Main photo: Business West
Read next:
- Marvin Rees awarded honorary degree by Swansea University
- Human rights activist awarded honorary degree from Bristol Uni
- New president of Bristol Chamber of Commerce & Initiative
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