Prince Meets Invictus Medal Designers

Students from Birmingham City University (BCU) have met Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, at an event to mark one year to go until the start of the Invictus Games.

BCU is contributing to a number of initiatives spanning research, student opportunities and the design of the official Games medals by staff and students from the university’s School of Jewellery.

“Seeing the 'I AM' spirit of the Invictus Games come to life is something I'll never forget,” said 34-year-old student Tamara Reinhard, who attended the event at the NEC in Birmingham.

“Since we began designing the medals, we've wanted to capture that same spirit in our work.

"Prince Harry was genuinely interested in our design process, and it was an incredible opportunity to share our work with him. Being part of a project that means so much to so many people is something I'll always be proud of."

The University had a strong presence throughout the event at the NEC, with Chancellor Ade Adepitan helping to demonstrate sports that will feature at the Games, including Laser Run, Wheelchair Rugby and Pickleball.

“The Invictus Games demonstrate the power of sport to inspire, unite and heal, so I'm proud that Birmingham and BCU will be at the heart of next year's event,” said Ade, a Paralympic bronze medallist in 2004 and now a respected television presenter.

"As a university with deep roots in Birmingham, we're determined to play our full part. Alongside designing the medals, our students and staff will contribute through research, volunteering and internships to help ensure the Games leave a lasting legacy for the city."

Through its expanding involvement with Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 and as Official University Partner of the European Athletics Championships that take place in August this year, BCU is playing a key role in both showpieces by helping shape unforgettable experiences for athletes, spectators and students.

"This demonstrates how our University is helping deliver world-class sporting events while giving students career-defining experiences,” said Professor David Mba, Vice-Chancellor of BCU.

"Whether they're supporting this summer's European Athletics Championships or designing medals for the Invictus Games, our students are developing the skills, confidence and professional networks that will benefit them long after the events have finished."

The European Athletics Championships Birmingham 2026 will take place at Alexander Stadium from August 10-16, marking the first time the championships have been staged in the UK.

One year later, Birmingham will welcome competitors from across the international Armed Forces community for the Invictus Games Birmingham 2027.

To find out more visit https://tickets.birmingham26.com/ and https://www.invictusgames2027.org/