Organised by
Luton Council’s Social Justice Unit, the awards shine a light on the often-unseen
efforts of local leaders, volunteers and advocates who enrich Luton’s diverse
communities and make a lasting difference to people’s lives. This year’s 30
award recipients were nominated by members of the public, reflecting the deep
appreciation felt by communities for those making a real difference on the
ground.
Since launching three years ago,
the awards programme has recognised nearly 100 individuals who have gone above
and beyond in supporting Luton’s Black African and Caribbean communities and
building a fairer, more inclusive town.
On the
night, attendees enjoyed music from Luton Music Service Senior Strings, led by
Chris Doggett and two local singers Christine Akele and Forever Oji. The
evening also included poetry readings from the Elders Poetry Windrush group, as
well as inspirational stories shared by local business owners Marcus Gittens
and Maxine Dwyer and award-winning filmmaker Niya Tailor.
The awards sit within the
council’s wider work to tackle racism and address inequalities across Luton. Last
year, the council strengthened its commitment to equality, diversity and
inclusion by signing UNISON’s Anti-Racism Charter. This builds on the council’s
2021 cross-party Black Lives Matter motion, which committed to tackling racial
inequalities and improving outcomes for Black residents in key areas such as
employment, education, health, and justice.
Community leaders from Black
African and Caribbean communities, who were instrumental in shaping the
original motion, continue to play a vital role in advising, supporting and
challenging the council and its partners as this work progresses.
The event also highlighted the
broader action taking place across the town to address inequality and social
exclusion. Initiatives such as the ‘We Are Luton’ campaign,
delivered through Luton’s Community Safety Partnership, bring together voices
from across Luton’s communities – including the United Luton Caribbean and
African Committee – to stand in solidarity against growing divisive and hateful
narratives. Alongside this, the citizen-led Luton Fairness Taskforce continues to focus on practical
steps to make Luton a fairer and more equitable place for all.
Cllr Maria Lovell MBE, Portfolio Holder for Women, Equalities and
Community Safety at Luton Council, said: “Our Unsung Black Hero award winners are a true force for change
in Luton. They embody the leadership, compassion and commitment that move our
town forward and are the backbone of so many of our communities. From me to you
– thank you for everything you do.”
Full list of awardees, as nominated by members of the public:
Brian
Adams – “For his
dedicated support for Black community events, which goes beyond and above.”
Leyla
Jasmine Alim –
“Leila is an outstanding 18-year-old who has demonstrated exceptional
leadership, initiative, and compassion through her work in the community.”
Oluf
unke
Asilokun – “Olufunke
has been a continual source of support to the Nigerian community year in year
out. She has a heart of gold going the extra mile in putting smiles on people’s
faces.”
Ola
dele
Awoyemi – “For
his community events contribution on knife crime awareness projects working
with young people and families.”
Junior
Badila – “For his hard
work with Local community radio/ media host supporting the community.”
Matthew
Bushnell – “For his hard work and dedication to the
work of the Mary Seacole Housing Association.”
David
Crean MBE – “For his
dedication to community work. He always finds a way to get things done, has
helped with the Caribbean lunch club and 50+ African, Windrush and Caribbean
lunches for Black History month.”
Angela
Da’Silva – “Angela
has become a driving force for excellence and inclusion, inspiring the next
generation of beauty professionals through her innovative teaching and
unwavering commitment to personal growth.”
Fabian
Felas – “A dedicated
community photographer.”
Rose
Forde – “For the valuable initiative of Street Fathers
and Mothers reaching out to young vulnerable people. Providing an intervention
in their lives that may change their direction in life for a positive outcome
that will have a ripple effect throughout the community.”
Kevin
George – “Community grassroots role model
supporting young people in coaching and entrepreneurship”
Stacy
George – “Community
grassroots role models supporting young people in coaching and
entrepreneurship.”
Patricia
Griffin – “Dedicated
to making a change in the lives of many.”
Florence
Henry – “This year
marks sixty years of being in business for Mrs Henry, she’s an icon and an
unsung hero, a role model and a definite driving force.”
– “Lovilia is
a true unsung hero, self-funded who goes above and beyond for young people in
our community. She teaches, guides, feeds, and clothes them – always ensuring
no young person is left behind. Her dedication and care shine through
everything she does.”
Anthony
Herbert –
“Supporting community events as a volunteer and shows kindness to all he
engages with.”
Ian
Johnsen – “His
generosity and support for African and Caribbean 50+ events and black history.”
Glenn
Jenkins –
“Unwavering support for African and community culture and events.”
Shaneen
Khan – “Selfless
community work supporting black families – no job too small!!”
Margaret
Matthew BEM –
“Spends much of her time checking up on the wellbeing of others. Has selflessly
dedicated herself to the community and the carnival Arts centre for many years.
Truly makes a difference in the lives of others.”
Vera
McNamara – “Has
selflessly dedicated her time to community needs, works extremely hard to make
things happen in the community.”
Ann
Munroe – “Truly
works from the heart to help others to enrich their lives, a fantastic team
player.”
Peter
Muturi – “Has been a
pillar of the Luton community for a long time without being recognised. In
community he is well noted supportive physically and giving advice. His quiet
determination, kindness, and leadership have transformed the community. He
truly represents what it means to be an “unsung hero” in Luton’s community.”
Lawrence
Palmer – “This man
has been a pillar of the community for the last 40 years if not more.”
Mihaela
Lentuta Piniuc “A
leadingfigure of inspiration at the Leagrave Scouts Group.”
Dennis
Riley – “Support
with Local Media/host supporting community events, empowering the community.”
Kerryann
Spenser – “Kerryann
is an exceptional leader and visionary within the care sector, whose
compassion, integrity, and commitment to excellence have transformed countless
lives.”
Lenny
Tshabalala – “Local
popular media host and presenter community champion supporting events.”
Paul Webb – “For his commitment to supporting
young people in amateur boxing, figure of empowerment.”
Michaela
Williams – “Michaela
organises a dementia cafe every other Saturday, where people living with
dementia and their families can come and interact with other people and share
their experience.”
