Sheila Fleet OBE awarded Honorary Doctorate at UHI Orkney graduation ceremony

The University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) awarded a prestigious Honorary Doctorate to renowned Orcadian jewellery designer, Sheila Fleet OBE at the UHI Orkney graduation ceremony held on Friday 27 September at St Magnus Cathedral, in Kirkwall.

The Honorary Doctorate is one of the highest recognitions the university bestows, celebrating individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to their field, whether in education, industry, public service, cultural or creative work. 

Sheila Fleet OBE, founder and creative director of Sheila Fleet Jewellery is widely regarded as one of Scotland’s most esteemed designers and makers of fine jewellery. Known for her handcrafted, nature-inspired silver and gold pieces with vibrant enamel work, her designs capture the essence and reflect the beauty of the Orkney landscape, making her a true ambassador for the region.

She is one of Scotland’s foremost designers and makers of fine jewellery. Her exceptional ability to blend artistic vision with technical expertise has earned her a well-deserved reputation, both nationally and internationally.

Her journey in jewellery design began in Orkney, where her creative upbringing led her to excel at Edinburgh College of Art. She went on to work with prominent jewellery companies before establishing Sheila Fleet Jewellery in 1993. She was awarded an OBE for her services to the jewellery industry, recognising not only her artistic achievements but also her dedication to supporting local craftsmanship and promoting Orkney’s rich cultural heritage.

Claire Kemp, Deputy Principal at UHI Orkney presented Sheila with her award, saying:

“Sheila’s designs draw deeply on the natural beauty and heritage of Orkney, giving her work a distinctive sense of place. Her jewellery reflects the essence of the islands, allowing wearers to carry a connection to Orkney with them, making her a true ambassador for her home. Her success is a source of great pride to the local community and reinforces Orkney’s reputation as a centre of creativity and genuine craftmanship. She is a true inspiration to those she supports and to the emerging talents following in her footsteps.”

Reflecting on her award, Sheila Fleet OBE said:

“I’m incredibly honoured to receive this award, and especially delighted that it is being awarded by UHI Orkney. I left school at 15 and only ever wanted to earn a living doing something I love. In 1963 I was granted a bursary by the Orkney Education Committee that enabled me to study at Edinburgh College of Art. In his accompanying letter, Robert Mack, Director of Education in Orkney at the time, wrote that the Committee were ‘rather worried’ about my prospects and that, rather than becoming a teacher—the expected path for many art students back in the day—my career would instead ‘have to lie in some form of industrial art’. That guidance was music to my ears and never really left me, helping shape the path I've followed ever since. And here I am now, receiving an Honorary Doctorate from UHI, an institution guiding students in Orkney on their paths to the future. I hope my life experience can inspire others to follow their passion and become successful doing something they love.”

Read more about the UHI Orkney Graduation 2024.