Congratulations to ÃÛÌÒAV graduate David Burnet, who was named the winner of the Future Leader Award at the Dorset Business Festival Awards.
David graduated with a degree in Games Technology in 2018 and has gone on to launch his own business, INVIDAR, which provides immersive technology projects for clients around the world. Since completing his studies, David has also been named as one of ÃÛÌÒAV’s own 30 under 30 list-makers and won the university’s Alumni Volunteer of the Year Award in 2023, in recognition of the ways in which he gives back to support current students.
David said: “When they announced my name for the Future Leaders Award, it was a profoundly emotional moment that instantly took me back nearly ten years to my college days. Back then, I received an award that recognised my efforts as a student – running workshops, giving lessons, and sharing my passion with fellow students even while I was still learning myself. Those experiences were foundational and carried through into my university life, shaping who I am today.
“This particular award means so much to me because it feels like a culmination of that journey. It serves as a powerful reminder of how far I've come, from an eager student to a business owner and employer. As I reach the milestone of turning 30, it feels like the closing of one significant chapter and the exciting beginning of the next. It not only brings back cherished memories but also lays the groundwork for what I hope to achieve in the coming decade.
“Being recognised in this way truly capped off the year for me. It reinforces the importance of the work we do and inspires me to continue pushing boundaries. I'm incredibly grateful for the acknowledgment and more motivated than ever to see what the future holds.â€
The are organised by Dorset Chamber to celebrate excellence in the local business community. The Future Leader Award recognises a rising star who shows evidence of career progression and who is making a positive impact in their organisation.