Our CEO/Artistic Director Suzann McLean has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate from Wimbledon College of Arts and the Creative Computing Institute, both part of University of the Arts London (UAL).

The accolade recognises Suzann’s exceptional contributions to the creative industries, particularly her leadership in diversifying access to the performing arts, amplifying underrepresented voices and shaping the careers of countless emerging creatives.

A graduate of the Italia Conti Academy and holder of a Master’s degree in Directing and Producing Theatre for Social Change from Middlesex University, Suzann has combined academic rigour with practical innovation. In 2004, she founded Young and Talented, a theatre school dedicated to nurturing young people for Stage, Screen and Life.

The honorary doctorate was conferred during UAL’s 2025 Graduation Ceremonies, held at the Royal Festival Hall on 15 July. Suzann is one of 12 distinguished individuals honoured this year by UAL for their global impact across disciplines including theatre, video game development, sustainability, cosmetic science, fashion, curation, fine art, education, and activism.

“It’s an honour to be recognised by institutions that value creative innovation and social impact,” said Suzann, “This recognition encourages me to keep opening doors for young people who deserve to see themselves on stage, behind the scenes, and in leadership roles across the creative industries. When doors open, we walk through, and then we hold them open for others.”

Dr. Anni Domingo, Chair of Theatre Peckham added, “Suzann’s efforts to introduce young people to theatre have been transformative. Through her leadership, young people from marginalised backgrounds have been given a platform to tell their own stories – stories that are often underrepresented in the arts. This recognition is well-deserved and we are proud to have Suzann as our leader at Theatre Peckham.” 

Suzann’s passion and commitment in the arts has not gone unnoticed, other accolades for her work, include the prestigious Arts & Media Award at the Black British Business Awards in 2022, as Torchbearer for the 2012 Olympics where she was recognised for her excellent work for the community and society, and in 2023, she was awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours List in recognition of her services to the arts.