Mel B, famously known as a member of the Spice Girls and a tireless advocate for domestic abuse survivors, is about to be awarded an honorary doctorate from Leeds Beckett University. This accolade is a recognition of her dedicated work and support for those who have faced abuse.

As the patron of Women’s Aid and a survivor herself, Mel B (Melanie Brown) expressed profound gratitude for this recognition. She has been pursuing studies in trauma-informed care at Leeds Beckett University, aiming to deepen her understanding and further assist survivors. Speaking to The Sun, she said, “Receiving this doctorate is an incredible honor. I wanted to earn it by enriching my knowledge and equipping myself to make a real difference.”

After her tumultuous marriage to Stephen Belafonte ended in 2016 with serious abuse allegations, Mel B turned her focus towards education and advocacy. Reflecting on her journey, she shared, “I've always dreamed of going to university. This opportunity allowed me to follow that dream and gain valuable insights.”

Interestingly, Mel B chose to keep her academic pursuits private, even from her closest friends and family, including her fellow Spice Girls and her mother. “They were all quite shocked when they found out,” she admitted. Initially, she was nervous about attending lectures but found solace in being able to study anonymously. “I felt more nervous stepping into that classroom on the first day than performing at Wembley with the Spice Girls,” she confessed. “But it was incredible to be just another student among many.”

Mel B is a mother to Phoenix, 25, Angel, 17, and 12-year-old Madison. She hopes that her new academic knowledge will enhance her work with Women’s Aid. “Having a deep emotional understanding of abuse was always part of my advocacy. Now, with the theoretical knowledge and terminology, I feel more equipped to help,” she said. “I’m driven to contribute even more to the cause.”

Leeds Beckett University’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Peter Slee, lauded Mel B for her resilience and dedication. “Melanie Brown MBE embodies the spirit of our institution – overcoming adversity and using her influence to champion others. We are honored to recognize her with this degree,” he commented.

Despite these strides, her former husband, Stephen Belafonte, has continually denied the abuse allegations and has recently initiated a defamation lawsuit against Mel B.

This prestigious recognition is set to be awarded later this month, marking a significant milestone in Mel B’s journey as both a public figure and an advocate for change.