What began as a solo project for Ellina Pollitt during her time as a student at University of Staffordshire has turned into a multi-award-winning, internationally-recognised jewellery brand.

Ellina, who co-designed the University’s mace, has had her designs featured in glossy, lifestyle magazines in the UK and overseas, including in Vogue.

Originally from Russia and now living in Biddulph, Ellina has exhibited nationally and internationally at prestigious events including Munich Jewellery Week, Goldsmiths Fair, Goldsmiths North, Cluster Contemporary Jewellery Fair in London, and New York Jewellery Week. She has represented both Staffordshire and University of Staffordshire on an international platform, showcasing innovative British design to audiences across Europe and the United States.

Her work has received significant industry recognition. She was awarded a Gold Award from the Goldsmiths’ Craft and Design Council for Laser Technologies and received the overall Alfa Laser Award. She was shortlisted as a finalist for Rising Star of the Year at the National Association of Jewellers Awards and received the Luminary Award in New York for wearable art.

Ellina blends traditional jewellery-making techniques with cutting-edge technologies such as fibre laser cutting and powder coating.

She joined University of Staffordshire in 2016 for a foundation year followed by a BA (Hons) in 3D Design (Jewellery) which she completed with First-Class Honours. She later returned to join the Peter Coates MSc in Entrepreneurship, which supported the development of her business.

She is a strong advocate of the transformational power of education and says she owes much of her current success to the support she has received during her time at University of Staffordshire.

She said: “Alongside building my business, I have actively contributed to education and community engagement across Staffordshire. During the past year I have delivered jewellery workshops, creative sessions and educational talks for students and community groups, sharing both practical jewellery-making skills and entrepreneurial knowledge.

“Working with Stoke-on-Trent College and local arts organisations has allowed me to inspire future creatives while demonstrating how art, design and business can work together to create career opportunities.

“The growth of my business has also been supported through strategic collaborations with photographers, fashion creatives, galleries and international exhibition organisers.

“One of the achievements I am most proud of is establishing my own jewellery workshop after completing my studies. This has enabled me to continue developing collections, teaching workshops and creating new opportunities for business growth. Through determination and innovation, I have transformed a passion for jewellery design into a sustainable business with international reach.

“My journey has not been without challenges. As a mature student, single mother and entrepreneur, I have balanced education, family responsibilities and business development simultaneously. Building a creative business while completing two degrees required resilience, commitment and continuous learning.

“The support I received from mentors, lecturers and the wider University community played a significant role in helping me overcome obstacles and continue progressing professionally.

“University of Staffordshire has remained an important part of my journey, and I am proud to continue representing the institution through my achievements and business activities. My story demonstrates how education, creativity and entrepreneurship can create meaningful opportunities, not only for individual success but also for contributing to the wider creative economy.

“Looking ahead, my ambition is to continue expanding internationally, collaborate with fashion designers and luxury brands, develop educational opportunities for emerging creatives, and further establish Staffordshire as a region recognised for innovation and contemporary design.”

Ellina Pollitt has entered the Alumni Business Person of the Year, Growth, Entrepreneur of the Year and Innovation categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.