Kaiser Chiefs star and respected judge given honorary fellowships

Yahoo

18-07-2025

The achievements of an indie rock star and an eminent judge have been recognised with honorary fellowships.
Nick Hodgson, a founding member of Leeds band the Kaiser Chiefs, and His Honour Judge Ahmed Nadim of Bradford Crown Court, received the honours from Leeds Trinity University for their impact in music and law.
The awards were presented at a ceremony held at the university's Horsforth campus.
Judge Nadim, a senior member of Lincoln House Chambers, began his legal career as "one of only a few Asian barristers practicing in the UK" at the time, according to a Leeds Trinity University spokesperson.
Judge Nadim said: "To be recognised by a university that invests in social inclusion and diversity is the ultimate compliment, and it gives me greater strength and encouragement to get involved in the university's work.
Judge Nadim spoke of his hope of engaging in further mentoring work, including inviting students to court to observe the justice system at first-hand (Image: Supplied)
"I'm hoping to engage in more mentoring work, inviting students to our court, so they can experience the operation of our justice system first-hand.
"This will hopefully disabuse them of any notion that the position of being a judge is reserved for a particular class of person.
"I would encourage everyone who aspires to be a barrister or solicitor, or nurses a hope to become a judge, to follow their dream.
"Don't allow other people's fears to define your ambitions."
Mr Hodgson, a Leeds Trinity alumnus who studied media and geography, was honoured for his musical achievements and charitable work, including support for Leeds-based children's cancer charity Candlelighters and the Alzheimer's Society.
Mr Hodgson said: "I was surprised to receive the honorary fellowship, but it is nice to be recognised as somebody worthy of this award.
"Being back on campus has reminded me of my time as a student in the 90s, living in halls and making music with most of the members of what eventually became the Kaiser Chiefs.
"I remember writing a lot of songs in my student accommodation room.
"It was so fun.
"My advice for students going into creative fields is to not let anyone put them off and just go ahead and do it.
"Don't let people crush your dreams."
Professor Charles Egbu, vice-chancellor at Leeds Trinity University, said: "I am delighted that Leeds Trinity continues to expand its honorary fellows community and that we are building meaningful relationships with such a range of inspirational individuals."
Mr Hodgson and Judge Nadim were among seven individuals recognised for their contributions across law, digital, psychology, health, and social care.