Your Mayor

Mayor’s Award winners 2022-23

A number of inspirational local people and extraordinary organisations have been recognised with Mayor’s Awards this year.

This year’s recipients of Mayor’s Awards are:

Abem Abraham 

For the exceptional support Abem has shown for local services in the community through volunteering and fund-raising efforts. Abem has shown tremendous determination and resilience to carry out extraordinary charitable endeavours, which include volunteering at and donating to a local food bank and running the Race for Life London charity run in aid of cancer research.

Gillian Best 

For Gillian’s dedication and commitment to serving the community in Chelsea. Gillian’s local knowledge was instrumental in the creation of a DVD detailing the history of Cremorne Gardens and the creation of informative history boards erected in Cremorne Gardens, which has not only contributed a significant educational resource, but also one that has greatly added to the interest of visitors to Cremorne Gardens.

Jill Brown

For Jill’s extraordinary work as Chair of Henry Dickens Court Residents’ Association and as founder of CHUMS, a voluntary organisation that provides support to address the needs of lone elderly and vulnerable residents on the Henry Dickens Estate. In these roles, Jill has supported residents by making referrals to local services, coordinated the delivery of over 6,000 meals during the COVID pandemic and set up an IT Hub on the estate to help tackle digital exclusion.

Karen Clark 

For the 30 plus years of service that Karen has devoted to working with the community. Karen has been at the forefront of supporting and challenging the police to improve local policing. As an Appropriate Adult, Chair of Pembridge Ward Safer Neighbourhood Team Panel and Deputy Chair of the borough’s Independent Advisory Group, Karen is described by peers as ‘utterly selfless and an inspiration’ for redressing residents' concerns with the police and for working to enhance community safety in the borough.

Arlyne Halley

For Arlyne’s tireless efforts and outstanding leadership in addressing and raising awareness about the challenges that parents and carers of children with disabilities face in relation to accessing play services and facilities. Arlyne has used her lived experience to create Shyne2Chance – which is a legacy in the name of Arlyne’s deceased son – where parents and carers of children with disabilities can meet to network, receive peer support and their children can have a safe place to play.

Christopher Herbert 

For the significant contribution that Chris has had on the lives of children and young people in the borough. Chris founded Fit For Life Youth in 2019, providing free accessible activities for local children and young people to improve mental health by creating space for physical activity. Chris also runs a Holiday Activity and Food Programme for over 50 children and young people from low-income families and has used his unique local knowledge of the borough to act as a mentor; inspiring local young people into education and employment.

India Middleton-Roy 

For the positive impact that India has had on the lives of residents, helping them to thrive socially, emotionally and academically. India’s remarkable endeavours include volunteering at a local playgroup, in a local primary school to support pupils with literacy challenges and at a local care home, providing human warmth and compassion to combat loneliness.

Pattrina Quashie-Ferguson 

For the extraordinary support that Pattrina has provided to residents in both a professional and voluntary capacity. As Head of Operations at the Venture Centre, Pattrina has developed an innovative and inspirational play provision for children across the borough and has displayed exemplary leadership that has imbued new leaders in youth services. Pattrina was instrumental in bringing the culture and the arts of the Notting Hill Carnival to the south of the borough and this celebration of culture also led to Pattrina playing a major role in the ‘Steel The Show’ Youth Takeover, a unique event showcasing the talents of young steel pan musicians.

Annie Redmile 

For Annie’s outstanding contribution to improving local life for residents in the borough. In many varied roles over the decades, Annie has advocated for local services to meet local needs, including as Chair of the Police and Community Working Group, serving on the Police and Community Consultative Group for RBKC and more recently joining the Board of Kensington & Chelsea Social Council. Annie has also a been a resilient, steadfast voice for residents assisting them to access services and in working to tackle anti-social behaviour.

Shailesh Thakrar 

For Shailesh’s decades of work running a pharmacy which provides exceptional service to the community in North Kensington. The importance of Shailesh’s community mindedness was brought to the fore during the COVID pandemic. For the duration of the pandemic, Shailesh’s work and service was exemplary and the reassurance provided to the community was crucial. Shailesh worked longer hours than ever before being a constant source of reliability to ensure the community received the best possible advice and service in very difficult circumstances.

Bikeworks

For their work in delivering inclusive All Ability Clubs to enhance access to cycling for people with disabilities, people with long term health conditions and carers – to increase physical activity, wellbeing and connectivity. Bikeworks harnesses a skilled team of staff and volunteers, including their Inclusive Cycle Instructors, to provide all participants with access to expert advice on finding the right cycles, access to adapted and specialist cycles and support with receiving cycle training.

St Mary's Ukrainian School

For their work at the fore of the Ukraine response providing evacuees of all ages with a common place of unity and security at a time of immense uncertainty and fear. St Mary’s Ukrainian School have been instrumental in working with local schools to expand the supplementary school provision and to provide their expertise to ensure children receive the best transition into mainstream schools in England. Partnering with local organisations, St Mary’s Ukrainian School have shown resilience and empathy amid some of the most challenging circumstances to support children and families to access vital services, including counselling and social and emotional care, to play a pivotal role in rebuilding lives.

Swimunity

For their dedicated work in enhancing access to swimming by providing free swimming classes in North Kensington for women and children. Set up in 2020 in the aftermath of the Grenfell tragedy, Swimunity has worked tirelessly to strengthen community cohesion and enhance its participants active physical development and wellbeing.

Mayor's Award winners 2021-22

Hagir Ahmed 

Hagir Ahmed has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Individual Contribution for her voluntary work as a First Responder, including in response to the Grenfell Tragedy, and for helping the local community by volunteering at the foodbank, collecting and delivering prescriptions, preparing food, and supporting the health and wellbeing of asylum seeker refugees in the borough.

Moktar Alqaderi 

Moktar Alqaderi has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Individual Contribution for the support he has provided to young people in Kensington and Chelsea for more than a decade, including through his work running Notting Hill Law, establishing a social enterprise providing mentorship to ex-offenders, founding Progressay (an EdTech start-up), and setting up Kensington Impact F.C. which delivers 50 free weekly football sessions to young people.

Mark Barr 

Mark Barr has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Individual Contribution for the 21 years he served as Chairman of the Portobello and Golborne Management Committee (PGMC), consolidating the group into a respected body with a powerful voice that is fully engaged with residents, businesses and the council. Mark’s work with the PGMC and the Markets Streets Action group has contributed greatly to the sustainability of Portobello & Golborne Markets and has made a significant difference to the lives and livelihoods of local residents.

Fiona Flaherty 

Fiona Flaherty has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Individual Contribution for her dedication to the North Kensington community through her work with a variety of organisations including Lancaster West Residents’ Association, the Food Collab, Dale Youth, Unity Grove and as co-director of North Kensington Hearts and Minds which runs Bay 20 community centre.

John Goddard 

John Goddard has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Individual Contribution for the significant contribution he has made to the lives of hundreds of people experiencing homelessness through his role as an office volunteer with Glass Door Homeless Charity. John has helped guests to access the support they require, and has also volunteered his time to assist with Glass Door’s busy night shelters and major fundraising events.

Robert Halbert-Pereno 

Robert Halbert-Pereno has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Individual Contribution for his work as a Community Gardener with the W11 Neighbourhood Team and as a Community Champion Volunteer. In these roles, Robert has organised community events and delivered various projects aimed at bringing people together to tackle isolation in addition to promoting health and wellbeing.

Nicholas Halbritter 

Nicholas Halbritter has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Individual Contribution for his dedicated fundraising efforts for Armed Forces veterans over his 15 years of voluntary work for the Royal British Legion, of which he is currently branch Chairman, in addition to his longstanding membership of Friends of Brompton Cemetery, holding regular guided tours and organising the cemetery’s annual Open Day.

Cate Latto 

Cate Latto has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Individual Contribution for the positive impact her work creating, developing and growing One Community (based at St Charles Hospital Mental Health Unit) has had on the health and wellbeing of service users. This work includes co-ordinating a huge range of co-produced activities and support groups, and establishing the One Community Radio to reduce isolation during the pandemic.

Rob McGibbon 

Rob McGibbon has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Individual Contribution for organising a petition and running a media campaign calling for the installation of a Green Man crossing over Battersea Bridge at Cheyne Walk, a crossing point that had been the subject of serious concerns locally for over 20 years. Rob’s campaign drew widespread news coverage and the petition gathered over 26,000 signatures. A crossing was installed in October 2021, making the area considerably safer for pedestrians and cyclists.

Dorinda Montgomery

Dorinda Montgomery has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Individual Contribution for herfor her involvement in with initiatives to support residents and reduce social isolation in Chelsea. Dorinda runs painting and art discussion groups, organises Little Green Fingers (a kids gardening club), volunteers at St Luke’s Vestry Food Bank and assisted with the creation of the Sunken Garden Outdoor Cinema on the Sutton Estate.

Shirley Nicholson 

Shirley Nicholson has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Individual Contribution for her decades of dedication to transforming knowledge and appreciation of RBKC’s Sambourne House and Leighton House Museums, including by researching and publishing books, compiling and editing information used in both museums, and hosting thousands of guided tours to museum visitors. 

Malcolm Phillips

Malcolm Phillips has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Individual Contribution for establishing The Grenfell Night Service which provided mental health support to residents and members of the public in need of assistance following the Grenfell Tragedy. For more than 25 years, Malcolm has also provided mental health support to the local community through his work with Hestia.

Penny Pocock 

Penny Pocock has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Individual Contribution for the support she has provided to the Chelsea community over many years, including in her roles as Chair and Vice President of the Chelsea Gardens Guild, in addition to her voluntary work for Chelsea Physic Garden and the gardens of Chelsea Old Church.

Roger Roberts 

Roger Roberts has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Individual Contribution for his many years of work with the Golborne Forum which facilitates discussion between residents and organisations on matters of local importance. He has led on projects including the Golborne Road Improvement project and the Golborne Festival, whilst also serving on the Markets Action Group and contributing to the Golborne Life magazine.

Hedi Beltaeif 

Hedi Beltaeif has been recognised for a Mayor’s Award in the category of Young Person for the positive impact he has had on the lives of young people, professionals and families in the borough, including refugees from Afghanistan, and his commitment to advocating for young people through his involvement in the youth forum at Lancaster Community Youth Centre and his role as a Youth Representative at the council.

SEND News Crew 

The SEND News Crew have been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Young Person for their voluntary work producing content for the All for Youth Newsletter, which ensured that the SEND Community in RBKC and Westminster remained connected throughout the pandemic and inspired other children and young people to share their talents and get involved in a variety of activities and opportunities.

Al-Hasaniya Moroccan Women’s Project 

Al-Hasaniya Moroccan Women’s Project has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Local Community Organisation for serving the needs of Moroccan and Arabic speaking women and their families for the past 36 years, including through casework, counselling, supporting those experiencing domestic abuse and, during the pandemic, setting up a digital taskforce to ensure isolation is not loneliness. 

Dalgarno Trust Foodbank 

Dalgarno Trust Foodbank volunteers have been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Local Community Organisation for the courage they have demonstrated, and the loyalty and empathy shown to the local community throughout the pandemic. During this time, including the lockdowns, they packed and distributed approximately 450 bags of food each week to 150 households, ensuring everyone in the local community received the food they needed.

Glass Door Homeless Charity 

Glass Door Homeless Charity has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Local Community Organisation for co-ordinating the UK’s largest network of open-access services for people affected by homelessness – including access to accommodation, caseworkers, healthcare and support to find permanent housing – and for adapting their model to continue to provide this support throughout the pandemic. 

Octavia Care and Communities teams 

Octavia Care and Communities teams have been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Local Community Organisation for providing community support throughout the pandemic, which has included securing a donation of 120 meals per day from Chelsea FC, collecting and distributing food to those in need, undertaking shopping trips for vulnerable residents, reducing social isolation through befriending schemes and welfare visits and, where necessary, making referrals to partner agencies.

Our Power Hub 

Our Power Hub has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Local Community Organisation for delivering flexible, responsive and culturally sensitive support to the Bereaved, Survivors and Residents of the Grenfell Tragedy through an offering of activities and initiatives such as arts and crafts workshops, day trips and virtual services, while also linking individuals to local services and sources of professional advice.

The Central Gurdwara London (Khalsa Jatha) 

The Central Gurdwara London (Khalsa Jatha) has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Local Community Organisation for providing fresh food and thousands of hot meals throughout the pandemic, both to residents and local community organisations such as hospitals and food banks, thanks to the financial and logistical support of their congregation and volunteers.

The Muslim Cultural Heritage Centre (Al-Manaar) 

The Muslim Cultural Heritage Centre (Al-Manaar) has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Local Community Organisation for their dedicated support of hundreds of refugees from Afghanistan. Al-Manaar collected and distributed items to the newly arrived refugees, co-ordinated events and initiatives to welcome them to Kensington and Chelsea, organised visits to the mosque during prayer times and provided advice to ensure that the council’s support offer was culturally sensitive.

The Space 

The Space has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Local Community Organisation for supporting the community’s recovery following the Grenfell Tragedy through a community-led health and wellbeing programme, running kids clubs during the school holidays and establishing a Baby Bank offering access to essential items for children aged 5 and under.

The Venture Centre Community Association and Adventure Playground 

The Venture Centre Community Association and Adventure Playground has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Local Community Organisation for service to the community during the pandemic, especially their assistance to children, families and vulnerable adults. Their offering included school holiday programmes targeted at key worker families and vulnerable children, as well as the opening of three new covid-secure adventure play sites across the borough and a foodbank which supported 400 local families. 

West London Zone 

West London Zone has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Local Community Organisation for working with approximately 112 children and families from Ark Brunel Primary School and over 500 more from across the borough, helping them to thrive socially, emotionally and academically through a holistic package of support that included partnering with local organisations and providing access to counselling services, tuition, technology for learning, drama and art classes.

Mayor’s Award winners 2020-21

All Saints Foodbank

All Saints Foodbank has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Local Community Organisation for their work establishing and growing their food stall during the Coronavirus Pandemic. Thanks to donations from local people and businesses alike, the food stall now supports approximately 50 households per week while also distributing food parcels to those who are housebound. The Foodbank is organised for local people, by local volunteers and has been a vital support to the community throughout the pandemic.

Angela Spence

Angela Spence has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Individual Contribution for her work with Kensington and Chelsea Social Council (KCSC) and the Westway Trust. In her role as interim Chair of the Westway Trust, Angela’s leadership helped to unify the Trust’s various stakeholders and guide the organisation to becoming more mindful of the changes that needed to take place at the Trust. As Chief Executive of KCSC, Angela has worked tirelessly to support the charitable sector in Kensington and Chelsea, to help sustain vital local services that serve the needs of the borough’s diverse community as well as championing those organisations who supported the community following the Grenfell tragedy.

Azkar Ali Shah

Azkar Ali Shah has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Individual Contribution for his work as Chair of Cremorne Residents’ Association (RA). As Chair of the RA, Ali has partnered with the Council to oversee improvements to the Estate, resolved antisocial behaviour issues, created a lasting memorial in honour of a member of the local community, held social barbecues for residents, organised Christmas lights and raised money for charity. Over his tenure, Ali has brought residents together and created a deep sense of community spirit on the Cremorne Estate.

Chelsea Community Hospital School (CCHS)

CCHS has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Local Community Organisation for their work supporting the educational, emotional and mental well-being of chronically and terminally ill children in the borough. CCHS is operational across seven hospital sites and within the community itself. The school also offers a programme of extra-curricular activities to their pupils throughout the holidays. During the Coronavirus pandemic, and to ensure the safety of its pupils, the school relocated on two separate occasions while simultaneously offering online tuition. Over their decades of work and commitment, the CCHS has transformed the lives of pupils and families alike.

Fatima Mourad, BSc

Fatima Mourad has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Coronavirus Response for her work ensuring Al-Hasaniya Moroccan Women’s Project – for which she is the current Chair, having served on its committee since 1995 – continues to support the local community throughout the Coronavirus pandemic. Fatima has mobilised volunteers and co-ordinated action plans to offer an array of support services to those most in need in the community, including those who are isolated and experiencing domestic violence.

Gloria Gardner

Gloria Gardner has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Individual Contribution for her work with Glass Door Homeless Charity and Under One Sky. Gloria has volunteered as a cook at the Glass Door night shelter in Chelsea for many years, co-ordinating logistics to ensure good produce from local supermarkets does not go to waste and served three-course Christmas dinners to Glass Door’s guests. Last March, Gloria was involved in launching Glass Door and Under One Sky’s Covid-19 Emergency Food Initiative which helped people experiencing homelessness during lockdown, a challenge she rose to with dedication and compassion.

Kensington + Chelsea Foundation

The Kensington + Chelsea Foundation has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Local Community Organisation for its work supporting local organisations and community schemes benefitting residents across the borough. The Foundation’s vision is that all residents should have the opportunity to live healthy, happy and fulfilled lives. Their borough-wide work to fundraise for, develop projects with, and raise the profiles of local charities has positively impacted communities across Kensington and Chelsea for over 12 years, including in the aftermath of the Grenfell tragedy and through the Coronavirus pandemic.

Latimer Community Art Therapy (LCAT)

LCAT has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Local Community Organisation for their work supporting the mental health and wellbeing of North Kensington residents. LCAT’s team of over 20 therapists offers group work and individual therapy to children and adults, working both in schools and the wider community. LCAT was set up in response to the trauma and distress of the local community following the Grenfell tragedy, and since then has continued to support residents, most recently moving its services online to account for lockdown restrictions during the Coronavirus pandemic. 

Major James Williams

Major James Williams has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Coronavirus Response for his work supporting local people around the World’s End Estate. Over the past year, Major Williams has cooked and delivered hot meals to local residents, ensuring they had access to necessary healthcare, whilst working with the local Over 50’s club to provide an alternative programme of events. He has also expanded the area’s Salvation Army foodbank and second-hand shop, ensuring local residents could access food and other important supplies.

Mandy Ala

Mandy Ala has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Individual Contribution for her work as Grants Manager at Campden Charities. In the 15 years Mandy has worked in this role, she has overseen the awarding of millions of pounds worth of grants to hundreds of Kensington residents experiencing financial need. Mandy played a leading role in Campden Charities’ response to the Grenfell tragedy, and has since established a programme for young people to better their financial futures in addition to developing a grants programme to support families throughout the Coronavirus pandemic. Mandy is well-known across the borough for her tireless dedication to supporting those in need.

Martyn Baker

Martyn Baker has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Individual Contribution for his work on behalf of residents of Lots Village, Chelsea. Martyn serves on the Committee of the Lots Village Chelsea Association and the Planning Committee of the Chelsea Society. In these roles, he has worked tirelessly to protect and foster the amenities of Chelsea Riverside, and to minimise the negative impacts of large developments on the health, safety and environmental wellbeing of the local community. Martyn is well known for his in-depth knowledge of local issues, forensic attention to detail and commitment when it comes to ensuring that local residents are consulted and their interests represented.

Master John Webster

Master John Webster has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Individual Contribution for his work teaching Taekwondo at the Curve Community Centre. Each week, over 100 children and young people from North Kensington take part in Master Webster’s Taekwondo classes. Under Master Webster’s tutelage, the Curve Taekwondo team have progressed to winning national and international competitions. When Coronavirus restrictions were introduced in 2020, Master Webster moved his Taekwondo lessons online and since then he has delivered a total of 1200 Zoom classes. Master Webster’s Taekwondo classes have significantly benefitted the physical and mental wellbeing of his students, both prior to and during the Coronavirus pandemic.

Midaye Somali Development Network

Midaye has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Local Community Organisation for their work providing specialist services to the borough’s East African community and other ethnic minorities. This includes the delivery of a Female Genital Mutilation clinic run jointly with midwives and social workers, as well as working with the Council to develop parental networks aimed at empowering the community and combatting youth violence. Throughout the pandemic Midaye has continued to provide help for parents and families whilst amplifying the voices of those they support.

Minna Korjonen

Minna Korjonen has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Individual Contribution for her work championing the voices and interests of disabled and other vulnerable people in the borough. Minna is an elected and co-opted representative for disabled and vulnerable people in various organisations within health and social care, MET policing and social housing. Minna is also a member of RBKC Disabled Forum, RBKC Police Independent Advisory Group and Housing Policy Task Groups in which roles she gives advice to the Council and the Police on matters relating to disabled and vulnerable people. Despite being physically disabled herself, Minna has continued to help members of the community throughout the Coronavirus pandemic, supporting them to access food, services and information. She has campaigned on behalf of disabled people for many years and has become a trusted local leader in the community. 

Mutual Aid, Kensington and Chelsea

Mutual Aid, Kensington and Chelsea has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Coronavirus Response for their work supporting residents through the pandemic. Mutual Aid K&C has over 1000 volunteers, comprising individual neighbours and community groups, who provided local people with shopping & medication, a foodbank, online advice hub, lunches and support for local refugees. Additionally, the Network worked with organisations across the borough, including NHS services, to provide immediate emergency support. The collective has stepped up to meet the myriad of challenges the pandemic presented with energy and dedication, and their work has supported countless RBKC residents contributing to a system of solidarity between locals.

Pam Bardouille

Pam Bardouille has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Coronavirus Response for her work developing the Dalgarno foodbank which has fed up to 160 people a week throughout the pandemic. Pam worked closely with local businesses who were donating food and thereafter co-ordinated a network of volunteers, voluntary organisations and the Council to ensure that this food was distributed to local people. Pam also helped those visiting the foodbank by signposting them to further support. Throughout the pandemic she has shown dedication to her local community and an empathy for those she has supported. 

The Pepper Pot Centre

The Pepper Pot Centre has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Local Community Organisation for their work supporting older members of the borough’s diverse African Caribbean community. Since it was established 40 years ago, the Centre has offered support and advocacy to its members. In the last year they have adapted their services to include delivering meals and household supplies whilst moving their services and activities to online platforms which has allowed their members to stay connected throughout lockdown.

Tarik Kaidi and Minds United FC

Tarik Kaidi and Minds United FC have been jointly recognised with Mayor’s Awards in the categories of Individual Contribution and Local Community Organisation respectively. Tarik founded Minds United FC to support the mental health and wellbeing of local residents. Tarik is a collaborative worker, reaching out to both voluntary and statutory partners to widen the impact of his work. Minds United FC offers a range of sports and activities in addition to football, and also supports members to achieve coaching qualifications. Since it was founded in 2019, Minds United FC has grown rapidly. It achieved its Charter Standard Accreditation in March 2020 and currently has 3 teams entered in the North West London Mental Health Football League. By creating a safe, inclusive and supportive environment, Minds United FC has made great strides when it comes to tackling the stigma and taboo surrounding mental health discussions.

Tim Sai Louie

Tim Sai Louie has been recognised with a Mayor’s Award in the category of Coronavirus Response for his voluntary work with Age UK Kensington and Chelsea and the Westway Community Transport. Tim helped older people to access information and advice, secured a number of large donations to local charities, and drove residents to their medical appointments and to do their shopping. Additionally, Tim has delivered food, activity packs and Christmas hampers across the borough, not only ensuring residents were provided with vital supplies but also with a friendly face during what was an isolating time for many.

Mayor’s Awards winners 2019-20

Nour-Eddine Aboudihaj

Nour-Eddine has lived in Kensington and Chelsea for the past 20 years and has dedicated many of those years to community engagement and development work in North Kensington.

His background as a University Lecturer and Transformation Coach has helped him to support and advocate for his local community skilfully and sensitively, especially since the Grenfell tragedy.

He has created and facilitated inclusive spaces for the bereaved and survivors of the fire to discuss and process their experiences.

He has also set up the Grenfell Trust, of which he is a voluntary Director, and established the Journey of Hope suicide prevention and wellbeing project.

Abdi Aden

Abdi began working for Earl’s Court Youth Club in 1998 and became the Youth Leader and Centre Co-Ordinator in 2017.

Under his leadership, the club has been able to expand its offer to local young people.

The Club’s most popular activity is football on their renovated artificial pitch, and through the relationship Abdi has built with Chelsea Football Club, members of the Club now have access to professional coaching.

He is known as a local community leader, working collaboratively with the Police to help young people affected by youth crime, linking with the Council’s Community Champions scheme to provide drop-in sessions and social activities for older people, and working with Councillors to improve the lives of young people who have been excluded from school.

Said Aden

Said has been a Senior Support Worker at Little Wormwood Scrubs Adventure Playground for over a decade and is also the Treasurer for Friends of Little Wormwood Scrubs.

In these roles he has supported many young people in Dalgarno and in the wider North Kensington area through creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where they can have fun, learn and develop.

He is seen as a role model by many and has helped to support local children to regain their sense of security after the Grenfell tragedy.

He is particularly recognised for his work on Shakespeare in the Squares and for securing funding to make the Annual Summer Fun Days free for the community to enjoy.

Ximena Chiesa

Ximena has worked with Age UK Kensington and Chelsea for many years, starting out as a volunteer and then joining the team full-time.

Over her time with Age UK, Ximena has worked tirelessly to help the older population of the borough, specifically holding activities, events, concerts, lunches, outings, walks and parties to help combat social isolation and loneliness.

Last year, Ximena also came up with the idea to organise a Carnival event for the borough’s elderly residents. This was a great success and looks to become an annual event.

Vestalia Chilton

Vestalia is the Founder and Director of Kensington & Chelsea Art Weekend, which, due to its success and popularity, has now turned into Kensington & Chelsea Art Week (KCAW).

KCAW is a highly ambitious borough-wide initiative which brings together cultural organisations from across Kensington and Chelsea to audiences within the borough and beyond.

Vestalia is described as both ‘tireless and fearless’ and is seen as an inspiration.

Her work has helped to build community connections, encourage collaborations between cultural institutions, and has increased public access to culture.

Sue Duggins

Sue is being recognised with a Mayor’s Award for her commitment to helping the bereaved and survivors of the Grenfell tragedy.

In the immediate aftermath of the fire she sorted and delivered care packages to survivors and has continued to raise and organise donations for those affected by the tragedy ever since.

She volunteers with Kids on the Green and Solidarity Sports, helping to support children and families in the local area.

In particular, she is recognised for her tireless work to deliver the Christmas for Grenfell initiative.

She has been described as a local hero.

Fiona Fleming- Brown

Fiona has been an active member of the Pembridge and Notting Hill community for many years through her role on the Committee of the Notting Hill Improvements Group and the Pembridge Association.

She has helped to advocate for the views of members of her local community in response to the proposed Cycle Superhighway in Notting Hill and has also been involved in work on local planning issues which have benefitted the Pembridge Conservation Area.

She is described as a ‘veritable dynamo’.

Tarek Gotti

Tarek provided help to local people and firefighters on the night of the Grenfell tragedy, and has continued to support his local community ever since.

He set up Little Angels for Grenfell through which he organises family outings and events.

He cooks regular community meals at his home, offering a place for the local community, especially the bereaved and survivors, to care for and connect with each other.

He volunteers to help older people attend appointments and do their shopping, and is also a committee member of the Henry Dickens Court Residents Association.

He is described by those who know him as motivational and inspiring, and a ‘mover, shaker and a fixer’.

Dr Ruth Hillary

Ruth was a founding member of the St Helen’s Residents’ Association, has been a Trustee of the Westway Trust for three years, and has served as Chair of the West London Bowling Club (WLBC) since 2014.

As Chair, she has improved the condition of the bowling green which was previously in disrepair and created a Pétanque court on what was wasteland.

The improvements she has made to the clubhouse have made the club’s facilities safe, secure and comfortable to members.

She has worked with other members of the local community and organisations to hold events and transform the WLBC into a community asset.

Carlos Husbands

Carlos is a Police Officer who is being recognised with a Mayor’s Award for his work with young people in North Kensington.

Through his very popular weekly football project, and other work he has done with partner agencies, he has been able to engage young people in workshops which allow them to access employment and training opportunities and help to keep themselves and their peers safe.

He is very popular with those he works with, and highly respected by his colleagues who say he is an irreplaceable member of their team.

Asia Jerradi El Abdullaoui

Two years ago, Asia set up a sewing group named after her close friend, Fouzia Wahabi, who lost her life in the Grenfell tragedy. The sewing group takes place at the Curve Community Centre and now has over 20 members, some of whom are bereaved and survivors of the tragedy.

The Fouzia Sewing Group offers its members a chance to learn new skills, exercise their creativity, and most of all, a supportive and understanding atmosphere where they can access emotional support.

The Group’s highlight is their fashion show where they can show the local community the clothes they have created.

Desmond Jonas

Desmond has worked as a Refuse Loader for the borough’s Waste Collection team for more than 25 years, and was nominated for a Mayor’s Award by residents living in Norland ward.

He is known for his efficiency, commitment and the high quality of work carried out by him and his team. Most of all, local residents value his warm, friendly and charming personality and the care he takes to look after their local area.

Jennie Kettlewell

Having joined the Friends of Holland Park in 2002, Jennie became Chair in 2013.

She has fostered positive and productive relationships with many of Holland Park’s key stakeholders, including the Council, and is highly regarded for her ability to understand and balance the requirements that different communities and organisations have of the park.

She has been key in implementing many initiatives, such as the Children’s Guide to Exploring Holland Park, as well as supporting the building of new playgrounds and the restoration of the park’s historic assets.

She has been described as a ‘true friend to the whole borough’.

Inge Marks

Inge has been a Producer for the Earl’s Courtiers for seven years, a volunteer at Earl’s Court Film Festival since 2015 and Chair of the Parents, Staff, Friends Association of St. Barnabas and St. Philip’s School for two years.

She has made a significant contribution to life in Earl’s Court, and is known for her creative flair and problem-solving skills.

As a producer for the Earl’s Courtiers, she creates costumes, designs and sets, and supports many local children to put on shows, helping them to develop their self-confidence and a love of theatre.

William Morrow and Vicky Jacobsen

William and Vicky are being jointly recognised with a Mayor’s Award for their work on the Christchurch Street Garden in Chelsea.

Together they volunteer their own time to plant, prune, care for, and maintain the garden.

Local residents have described the garden as a ‘little haven’ and have spoken of the comfort and space for reflection it has provided them.

Andreia Oliveira-Miguel

Andreia is a resident of the borough who has worked for RBKC’s Community Engagement team since 2017.

Prior to joining RBKC, she was active in helping those displaced by the Grenfell tragedy to access emergency accommodation and urgent supplies, and she also contributed to the London Resilience Gold Command Crisis Management Project.

She brought her knowledge of, and commitment to, serving the communities of North Kensington with her when she joined the Council, and has since been a key officer in the consultation process for the Youth Review, and took a leading role in the Council’s first ever participatory budgeting process.

Andreia’s colleagues say she is very hardworking, supportive and approachable, and has an endless passion for the local communities she works with.

Ada Ruth Portillo De Otubela

Ada has been nominated by firefighters based at Chelsea Fire Station for her tireless voluntary work helping to feed people who are homeless.

Every day, come rain or shine, Ada collects unsold food that would otherwise be wasted from local businesses and food outlets on the King’s Road, Chelsea, and hand-delivers it to homeless people and shelters in the area.

She has done this for years and is known for her cheerful, friendly and selfless character.

Shereen Serry

Since the Grenfell tragedy, Shereen has volunteered her own time to support the bereaved and survivors in many ways.

She is a trusted member of the local community, who will always lend a supportive and caring ear to those in need.

She attends meetings, including the Inquiry hearings, with bereaved and survivors and also helps them by writing letters and emails.

People who know Shereen say she is exceptionally kind and selfless.

Chris Shirley

Chris is a founding member of Kensington Dragons Football Club (KDFC), established in 2001, and currently volunteers as Trustee, Secretary and Treasurer of the Club. KDFC now has ten boys’ youth teams and two girls’ youth teams playing in the Premiership of the Middlesex County Football League and their home ground is at Kensington Memorial Park.

Alongside football, KDFC provides young people with mentorship, educational support and access to funding opportunities.

Chris was instrumental in getting their football pitch renovated, and has developed relationships with people from across the community and from many different organisations, including the Council, to help make the Football Club the most prominent in the borough and a shining example of community cohesion.

Chris has been described as a ‘true community player’.

Ayshen Topcu

Ayshen has volunteered at St. Cuthbert’s Centre for over a year and a half.

She took part in their Culinary Skills workshop programme, which she passed with distinction, and has since been a volunteer in their kitchen, helping to cook meals for the Centre’s visitors which number more than 100 every day.

Her confidence and skills have grown over her time working with the Centre, and she is a highly valued member of the team.

Those who work with Ayshen say she is always enthusiastic, positive and calm, and shows true dedication and sensitivity to the Centre’s clients.

Francesca Valerio

Francesca has worked as the Community Programme Director at Migrants Organise, a charity based in North Kensington that offers support and advice to refugees, migrants, and asylum seekers, for more than ten years.

The Community Programme she runs provides a mentoring scheme and casework assistance for their members, offering them a safe space to discuss their situations and access support.

Francesca’s colleagues say that she always takes her time to make sure that clients are listened to and understood, so that they can be fully involved in the plan to help them resolve issues they are facing. She is dedicated, trusted, and knowledgeable, and has been described as a woman with ‘a heart of gold’.

Liberty Venn

Liberty founded the London Children’s Book Project (LCBP) in 2017 and since then the charity has sorted and redistributed 190,000 books to schools, women’s support groups, foodbanks and a prison.

The Project began with a trial at Barlby School in Dalgarno in 2014, however it now supports children across London.

Liberty has developed relationships with independent donor schools and businesses who donate books, as well as volunteers who have spent over 1,800 hours sorting and delivering books.

The work of the LCBP expands the worlds of the children they help, and improves wellbeing and learning outcomes.

Those who nominated Liberty say her energy, drive and determination have been fundamental to the success of the LCBP.

Anthony Walker

Anthony is a conservation architect who has been the Chair of the Edwardes Square, Scarsdale & Abingdon Association (ESSA) for 20 years and is also a Trustee of the Kensington Society.

He works relentlessly to keep members of ESSA and other individuals and groups across Kensington informed about planning matters and uses his wealth of knowledge to help them respond to and improve plans.

Over his time in these voluntary roles he has helped to conserve many of the borough’s buildings and green spaces, and in turn, its history.

Tina With-Seidelin

Tina is a volunteer at Refettorio Felix at St. Cuthbert’s Centre, Earl’s Court.

She offers the Centre’s clients an array of support including one to one computer sessions, help to avoid falling victim to online and telephone scams, assistance to update Universal Credit journals, and applying for settled status through the EU Settlement Scheme.

She also supports the Centre’s clients with their Step Up to the Plate programme, which sees adults develop their culinary skills and work on their CV and interview technique to help them move into a career in hospitality.

Those who work with Tina say that her calm, warm and friendly character make her an excellent team member and support to those she helps.

Evanise Zwirtes

Evanise has volunteered for many years at Refettorio Felix at St. Cuthbert’s Centre, Earl’s Court.

She forms a crucial link between the kitchen which caters for many of the Centre’s most vulnerable clients, and support workers.

Her background in psychotherapy means that she is always able to offer an understanding and supportive ear and help visitors to the Centre access the services they need.

She is well-respected by those who work