"To be recognised in this way is a real honour, especially coming from a creative background, and I’m proud to champion the value of creativity and design as part of Queen’s global community."

Ryan Crown is a creative entrepreneur and the founder of Crown Creative, a branding and design agency with studios in Belfast, London and New York. Specialising in the hospitality sector, Ryan has partnered with some of the world’s leading names, including Waldorf Astoria, The Dead Rabbit, St. Regis and Marriott, to create distinctive brand identities, immersive experiences and story-led spaces that shape the future of modern hospitality.

Queen’s was a launchpad - a place where ambition was encouraged and ideas were taken seriously. It gave me the confidence to trust my instincts, take risks, and build something from the ground up. The alumni network, especially in the U.S., has been a real asset as I’ve grown Crown Creative internationally, and it’s been a privilege to stay connected through events and conversations that continue to inspire.

Ryan is also the co-founder of Neighbourhood Café, a design-forward, all-day café concept located in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.