The Awards celebrate the outstanding contributions of Lewisham people, young and old, and were held in Ladywell Fields, Catford, as part of the Lewisham Homes Open Day on the 12 September.
The six award categories aim to identify and reward those people and organisations who have made a positive impact within their communities. The Community Empowerment Award, won by XLP, is for the organisation that encourages community spirit through development of a local project. XLP won this for the interactive bus they run, that engages young people and children in positive activities and gives them a safe place to play, relax and learn.
At eleven years old, Ruby Metcalfe, winner of the Young Champion Award, was far and away the youngest winner on the day. Ruby successfully bid for £50,000 worth of funding for a new playground on the Hillcrest estate after writing a letter directly to the Mayor of Lewisham. Even at such a young age, Ruby saw a need, put in the work to secure the funding and her efforts will now directly benefit all residents on the estate.
Other winners included Sue Thompson who won the Good Neighbour award for her tireless efforts and support for her fellow neighbours. Hazel Grove Residents’ Association won the Most creative initiative by a Tenant and Resident Association for their community event - unveiling their new play area ‘The Grove’, also funded by the Mayor’s Playbuilder.
John Mitchell and Bradley Cummings were jointly awarded Unsung Heroes for being ‘one-in-a-million’ and Muriel Fawn won the Special Achievement Award for her years of working with the community.
