S Poddar
Mel B, former Spice Girl and advocate for domestic abuse victims, recently described her honorary degree from Leeds Beckett University as “life-changing.” Awarded for her efforts in supporting domestic abuse victims, Mel B, also known as Melanie Brown, received this recognition during a graduation ceremony.
Transitioning from pop star to campaigner, Brown has been vocal about her experiences in an abusive relationship, which fueled her commitment to helping others in similar situations. Reflecting on the honor, she said it was as monumental as performing at Wembley Stadium with the Spice Girls.
A university spokesperson highlighted that the degree acknowledged both her advocacy for domestic abuse victims and her status as a global music icon. Brown, originally from Leeds, shared that she had been studying Trauma Informed Care at the university and successfully passed all her exams.
Expressing her gratitude, Brown emphasized that she wanted to be more than just a recipient of an award; she sought to be a student at Leeds Beckett. She noted that being accepted into the Trauma Informed Care course was a significant milestone, despite her initial fears. This academic journey, she added, has profoundly changed her life.
In a personal touch, Brown mentioned her plans to frame both her degree certificate and her student card. Earlier this year, she spoke about moving in with her mother after leaving her ex-husband, Stephen Belafonte, who has denied the allegations of abuse against him.
