Mick Jackson, founder of the charity WildHearts, was honoured by University of the West of Scotland (UWS) at its graduation ceremony on 4 July 2012 at Town House, Hamilton.

WildHearts, which operates in 22 countries across five Continents, is a charity that is committed to launching companies that fight poverty.

Its first company WildHearts Office Supplies gives companies the ability to fund micro-finance globally simply through their office supply purchases. Its second, WildHearts Events has created iconic concepts such as the WolfTrek, WeeWalks and Micro-Tyco.

The Micro-Tyco challenge, which Mick Jackson introduced in 2010, sees groups receiving microfinance of £1 and having to turn it into as much money as possible over a month-long period. The University’s Business School has strong links with Mick Jackson and its students were invited to participate in the inaugural Micro-Tyco challenge, raising over £1,500 in the process. UWS students continue to participate in this important annual business challenge.

As a result of its success WildHearts now funds loans for the poor across the globe transforming 100,000 lives each year.

In 2008 Mick was voted Entrepreneur of the Year and Top Scot by the Scottish public, an honour he shares with JK Rowling and Olympic cyclist Chris Hoy.

Professor Seamus McDaid CBE, Principal and Vice Chancellor of University of the West of Scotland, said: “We are delighted to have awarded Mick Jackson with an Honorary Doctorate. He is a fitting recipient of this award and through WildHearts makes a significant contribution to fighting poverty across the world.

“Our students benefit significantly from participating in Micro-Tyco, which not only enhances their business and entrepreneurial skills but raises valuable funds to combat poverty.”