Alumni of the Year 2024: Ellen Hodakova Larsson and Mattias Reimer

Ellen Hodakova Larsson, a prominent fashion designer and former student at the Swedish School of Textiles, has with her innovative and sustainable design made a big mark in the fashion world.

“The Swedish School of Textiles has given me space to develop my creativity and my interest in daring to be innovative. It is incredibly wonderful to be awarded the Alumnus of the Year award,” said Ellen Hodakova Larsson, Alumnus of the Year 2024.

Mattias Reimer, nurse and principal supervisor at the orthopaedic clinic at Södra Älvsborg Hospital, has through his commitment to health care become a valuable resource and role model in a societal profession.

“I’m really passionate about the idea of developing together with others. To receive the Alumnus of the Year award feels like a big honour, but also a surprise.  It feels good to be able to give something back to my educational programme and the university,” said Mattias Reimer, Alumnus of the Year 2024.

Vice-Chancellor Mats Tinnsten is pleased to celebrate both alumni through the award.

“This year’s alumni are role models in their respective fields and they continue to inspire and break new ground in their fields. We are the university are very proud to highlight their commitment and achievements,” said Vice-Chancellor Mats Tinnsten.

Why they were chosen

Ellen Hodakova Larsson – Fashion Designer

“Ellen Hodakova Larsson has taken the design world by storm with her creative vision and commitment to sustainability. As an alumnus of the Swedish School of Textiles at the University of Borås, she has shown that it is possible to combine timeless and exploratory design and that there are no limits to what dedication and creativity can do. Her work in remake design is not only a celebration of craftsmanship, but also an important reminder of responsibility and the importance of thinking sustainably. She has been praised for her work extensively in recent years, including receiving the Fabric of Life Award and being the first Swede to be awarded the prestigious LVMH Prize.

Ellen is a valuable role model for both current and future students – her journey from student to prominent designer inspires us all to follow our dreams while contributing to the shift towards a sustainable world.”

We are pleased to announce Ellen Hodakova Larsson as Alumnus of the Year 2024 and we look forward to following her continued success and contributions to the design world.

Mattias Reimer – Nurse and principal supervisor at Södra Älvsborg Hospital

“Mattias Reimer, nurse and principal supervisor at the orthopaedic clinic at Södra Älvsborg Hospital, has through his sustained commitment to healthcare become a valuable asset for patients, colleagues and students. In an industry filled with challenges, Mattias has shown a genuine commitment and created a positive and inspiring work environment.

Mattias’s long-term perspective, authenticity and drive for equal care make him a very good role model and an alumnus whom we would like to celebrate. His pride in his profession is clear, and he is constantly working to inspire and guide the nurses of the future in a demanding and important profession. He regularly returns to the university as a guest lecturer, where he generously shares his experiences and knowledge. By giving back to the university’s students, he demonstrates his deep commitment to both education and professional development.”

Mattias Reimer’s strong drive for the nurses’ profession makes him an important role model and a worthy recipient of the Alumnus of the Year Award 2024.

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Previous recipients of the Alumnus of the Year award