It was an afternoon of pride and celebration as two of the winners of the 2023 Old Viking of the Year Award returned to the College for a special lunch. Hosted on Thursday 17 October 2024, the lunch rewarded Harry Geisler (15E) and Doug McArthur (90O), recipients of the prestigious OV of the Year Award, who have not only left a mark on their respective fields but also on the school community, serving as role models for current students and Old Vikings. The award winners were joined by Headmaster, Tyrone Howe as well as current Heads of College, Izzy Davenport-Thomas and Ben Stokes.

After a delicious three-course lunch, Harry and Doug sat down with Headmaster, Tyrone Howe, for a chat about the College's 3 Is - Inclusive, Individual and Inspirational. They discussed what these values mean to them and how they have implemented this Shiplake ethos in their working and personal lives post-Shiplake. The full interview can be accessed here.

Harry Geisler was the winner in the Ones to Watch (OV's Under 30) category. He was nominated for his work with the UN, implementing an informal waste recycling system in many refugee camps in Gaza at the outbreak of the Palestine/Israel conflict and working with various governments to facilitate banking solutions for those affected by wars throughout the Middle East and Africa. Harry's dedication to humanitarian efforts deserves recognition and it was an honour to welcome him back to the College.

Doug McArthur won the award in the Charity or Community Champion category due to his unwavering support and fundraising efforts for a fellow Old Viking suffering with terminal cancer. A fundraising event led by Doug raised nearly £35,000 and brought the Old Viking community together to support one of it's own. Doug demonstrates the values of community and compassion that the College strives to instil and we are proud to acknowledge the tremendous contribution he has made.

Nick Jones (81W) was the winner in the Business and Industry category, as he was nominated for his work in business, notably his significant contribution to the phenomenal success of Soho House and Co. His nomination included details of his immense resilience and fighting spirit - attributes that are highly valued and admired. The College recognises how his achievements in business and perseverance through tough times are an inspiration to the whole Shiplake community and we look forward to presenting Nick with his award soon.

It was an honour to host such outstanding members of the Old Viking community. We look forward to continuing this tradition in recognising inspirational OVs who have demonstrated notable achievements or excellence in their profession or voluntary work. The nominations for OV of the Year 2024 are NOW OPEN so if you know of an outstanding Old Viking who deserves to be recognised for their achievements in during 2024, please nominate them by clicking here! The deadline for nominations is 13 December 2024.