Graduands, your time at Imperial has been a journey of discovery with today being a moment of celebration as you continue your life path. You have worked hard, researched many topics, and collaborated on projects. This has given you immense knowledge in your field, and equipped you with an ability to learn continuously.

For generations, those with a degree from Imperial have made their mark in science, technology, engineering, medicine, business and education, making the world a better place. Today you join this illustrious group of outstanding thinkers and innovators.

From my own graduation day, I recall a feeling of joy, coupled with excitement and a feeling of pure possibility. I ask you to be ambitious! The world has many challenges to be solved and many opportunities to be realised by your innovative minds and collaborative effort.

You also join an incredibly wonderful Imperial alumni network, an opportunity for new friendships even as you build your current ones. I hope you will come back to Imperial periodically to share your experiences and support the continuing evolution of your alma mater.

I would also like to recognise the contributions of our staff, in particular our staff awardees, who work tirelessly to make all this possible, and to our external awardees who have accomplished so much in their respective fields.

In conclusion, my congratulations to all the graduates and award winners, and thank you to our Imperial colleagues who helped them get here. This is only the beginning.