A STUDENT from Cirencester's Royal Agricultural University (RAU) has been shortlisted for a national award.

Theo Wasserberg of RAU Enterprise Society has been shortlisted from over 60 nominated candidates for the National Association of College and University Entrepreneurs' (NACUE) Student Entrepreneur of the Year award.

Theo founded his business, Tahouts, selling travel-inspired clothing during his third year of university while running the university's enterprise society.

He was nominated by his peers for his outstanding contribution to entrepreneurship and support of fellow students.

Johnny Luk, NACUE CEO said: “I’m thrilled that Theo has been shortlisted for this award.

"His commitment to driving entrepreneurship at his university has been huge, alongside running his own businesses and studying for a degree.

"The Royal Agricultural University is a fantastic example of the entrepreneurial activity taking place at universities across the UK.

"They are testing their ideas, running profit generating ventures and gaining invaluable experience for their working lives.”

The winner will be chosen from the shortlisted nominations by a judging panel.

The winner will be announced on Friday, April 22 at Rise Manchester as part of NACUE’s Leaders Summit, an event to celebrate and unite student entrepreneurs and societies.

Theo is President of the RAU Enterprise Society and a student entrepreneur in residence. He provides peer mentoring for students starting out their businesses.

He was runner-up in the 2015 RAU Grand Idea business competition, and received £250 to invest into his business. 

Theo Wasserberg said: “I feel very privileged to have been nominated for this award. It's been a really great year and this just caps it off.

"I am very grateful to everyone that has helped me and to the enterprise department at the RAU.”

Theo started his business with the support of the university’s dedicated Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Programme.

In 2014/15, nine businesses launched due to the support of the enterprise programme.

Theo commented: “The Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Programme has been enormously helpful in enabling me turn a figment of my imagination into a real tangible business.

"It has also provided me with a strong network of contacts, which will help me to grow the business going forward.”