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The idea is to bring together student teams from the University of Leeds, Leeds Beckett, Leeds Trinity and Leeds Conservatoire for a full-day tournament featuring popular titles like Valorant, Overwatch, Rocket League, and League of Legends for an eSport Varsity event, which will be added to the traditional Varsity calendar. The event will have a community hub with streamed matches, commentary, and social gaming activities. The event aims to benefit a diverse and often underrepresented student community, including those who may not engage with Varsity through traditional sports. It also allows students to develop commentary, production, and event management skills.

Jamie Simon submitted this idea on behalf of the LUU eSports and Video Games Society.

 “We believed this idea was worth funding as it broadens participation in Varsity, reflects the growing significance of eSports, and fosters collaboration and inclusivity within and across university communities.” – Student Ideas Fund Panel.

The idea is to run a two-part event to support Postgraduate Research students in the School of Chemistry by combining academic development with social connection. The project includes a two-day research conference where students can present their work and a Summer Ball to celebrate achievements and foster community. The event will benefit PhD and Masters students, helping them prepare for Vivas, gain confidence in public speaking, and build relationships within what can often be an isolating academic experience.

Rachel Napier submitted this idea on behalf of the Postgraduate Chemistry Society (PGCS).

“We believed this idea was worth funding as it creates a space for recognition, celebration, and peer-to-peer support while encouraging a stronger, more connected postgraduate student culture.” – Student Ideas Fund Panel.

The idea is to produce a free print and digital publication celebrating the grassroots arts scene in Leeds, featuring interviews, event listings, and contributions from local creatives. to create a platform that connects students, emerging artists, and the broader community through accessible and engaging arts coverage. The magazine will benefit student writers, photographers, designers, and readers by offering opportunities for creative expression, skill development, and cultural connection beyond campus.

Django Durrant submitted this idea.

“We believed this idea was worth funding because it amplifies underrepresented voices, supports creative industries, and builds bridges between the university and the local arts community in a format that is both meaningful and enduring.” – Student Ideas Fund Panel.

The idea is for the Gryphon Arrows Drone Team, a new, student-led drone engineering team at the University of Leeds, to design, build, and compete in the IMechE UAS Challenge, a national unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) competition. The project will benefit engineering, computing, and business students by providing hands-on, practical experience in drone design, systems integration, and industry-relevant skills such as teamwork, risk assessment, and prototyping.

Rithik Dhandapani submitted this idea on behalf of the Aviation Society.

“We believed this idea was worth funding because it promotes innovation, collaboration, and technical development while laying the groundwork for a sustainable and competitive drone team that can represent Leeds in future national challenges.” – Student Ideas Fund Panel.

The idea was for the Society’s Cultural Fair project, which involved hosting a creative workshop. As part of a Cultural Fair, participants decorated tea light holders using glass paints and liners, creating a relaxed and expressive environment for attendees. The event aimed to benefit students seeking a creative outlet and sense of community while also building the society’s presence and visibility on campus.

Ameya Pisupati submitted this idea on behalf of the newly formed Colours in the Arts Society, which supports students of colour in the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Cultures (FAHACS).

“We believed this idea was worth funding because it supports the growth of an inclusive new society, encourages collaborative creativity, and helps to establish long-term engagement opportunities for underrepresented students in the arts.” – Student Ideas Panel.