Past Award Winners

Honoring Top University of New York in Prague Graduates (2018–2024)

The University of New York in Prague (UNYP) proudly continues its tradition of recognizing outstanding graduates through the UNYP Alumni of the Year award. Since 2018, this initiative has highlighted alumni who have excelled in business, technology, communication, education, and community engagement—both in the Czech Republic and internationally.

This annual recognition celebrates top UNYP alumni success stories, inspiring current students and the broader academic community. Below is a chronological list from 2024 to 2018 of UNYP graduates who have demonstrated exceptional achievement and contribution.

2024 – Nikki Severin: UNYP Graduate Making Waves in Video Game Marketing

Degree: Class of 2017 – Communication & Mass Media

Nikki Severin, a Communication & Mass Media graduate from UNYP, is currently the Brand & Marketing Manager at Bohemia Interactive, the largest video game development studio in the Czech Republic. During her student years, she was elected President of the Student Council, launched the university’s floorball team, and designed branded merchandise for students.

Despite a serious health challenge, Nikki made a remarkable comeback. Today, she’s also a voice-over artist and part-time actress, with her films nominated for prestigious awards like the Student Oscars and BAFTAs. Nikki is an advocate for young cancer patients and actively participates in organizations such as F*ck Cancer and Pink Bubble.

You can view her professional background on LinkedIn.

2023 – Amit Grinvald: UNYP Business Graduate and Financial Services Professional

Degree: Class of 2016 – Business Administration

Amit Grinvald exemplifies the career success of UNYP Business Administration graduates. A former President of the Student Council and co-creator of the TEDxUNYP event, Amit began his career at Keastone and quickly rose to become Head of Operations & Accounting.

He now works as an Associate Wealth Consultant at deVere Spain, serving international clients. Amit is also certified as a personal trainer and nutrition coach and engages in obstacle course racing and glider piloting.

You can view his professional background on LinkedIn.

2022 – Jeffrey Alan Medeiros: UNYP MBA Alumnus Turned Tech Entrepreneur and Educator

Degree: Class of 2012 – MBA

Jeffrey Medeiros is a UNYP MBA graduate who co-founded Keastone, a tech startup building an all-in-one platform for digital organization and productivity. Jeff continues to teach business courses at UNYP, mentoring students with a message of perseverance and self-belief: “If I can do it, anyone can.”

You can view his professional background on LinkedIn.

2021 – Pavel Bykov: UNYP MBA Graduate Founding a Successful IT Startup

Degree: Class of 2011 – MBA in Management Information Systems

Pavel Bykov used his UNYP education to launch IP Fabric, a fast-growing company that provides network infrastructure visibility and risk assessment software. Founded in 2015, the startup now employs 40+ people and serves some of the world’s largest enterprises. Pavel frequently returns to campus as a UNYP guest lecturer and mentor, contributing to the university’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

2020 – Danai Baouraki: Strategic Communication and Psychology Graduate Representing UNYP Globally

Degrees:

Class of 2016 – B.A. & Bc. in Communication & Mass Media and Psychology
Class of 2019 – M.A. in Strategic Communication

Danai Baouraki is a UNYP alumna with a dual bachelor’s and master’s degree who has stayed closely connected to the university. She served as Vice President of the Student Council, represented UNYP at international education fairs, and organized the Model United Nations conference in Prague for over 100 global participants.

Professionally, she launched a successful brand campaign at Unilever and currently works as a Brand Manager at Maspex, showcasing the impact of UNYP’s communication and business education.

You can view her professional background on LinkedIn.

2019 – Juwana Jenkins: Global Coach and Communication Specialist with a UNYP Master’s Degree

Degree: Class of 2013 – MA in Professional and Business Communication

Juwana Jenkins has over 25 years of experience in communication training, leadership development, and executive education across Europe, North America, and Asia. She has designed programs for universities, corporate clients, and nonprofit organizations. As a certified coach and mentor, Juwana’s work reflects the global influence of UNYP’s communication graduates.

2018 – Tomáš Kubica: UNYP Business Graduate and Global Finance Leader

Degree: Class of 2007 – Business Administration; International & Economic Relations

Tomáš Kubica has held prestigious roles at McKinsey & Co., Goldman Sachs, and KKR, operating across Prague, London, and Silicon Valley. After earning an MBA at INSEAD, he joined the Private Equity Club and continues to be active in elite networks such as the CFA Institute, the CAIA Association, Mensa International, and the World Economic Forum Global Shapers.

He has also supported the UNYP community as a mentor, donor (with over 100 books contributed to the library), and member of the External Business Advisory Board.

Join the Legacy: Nominate the Next UNYP Alumni of the Year

Each of these alumni showcases how a UNYP degree opens doors to international careers, personal growth, and leadership. Whether it’s through founding companies, mentoring students, or representing UNYP on the global stage, their stories inspire the next generation of students and graduates.

Do you know a graduate making a difference in the world?
Nominate them for the next UNYP Alumni of the Year award and help continue this proud tradition of honoring excellence on the External Business Advisory Board.