Two Bolton community leaders are travelling to the Palace of Westminster to receive national recognition for their outstanding work.
Tunde Olasupo and Khadija Patel are among just 28 recipients of the British Citizen Awards (BCA), which honour people making exceptional contributions to communities across the UK.
The medals will be presented during a ceremony at the Palace of Westminster on Thursday, July 23.
Stephanie Wood, from BCA partner OneStop, said: “This year’s medallists showcase the remarkable support that exists within our communities, particularly during challenging times.”
“We are proud to collaborate with the BCA and play a part in honouring these outstanding individuals.”
Olasupo will receive the BCA Medal of Honour for Services to Community for his work supporting young people through Believe Achieve, the Bolton youth hub he founded following the tragic loss of his baby son.
Image Credits: Public
Since then, the hub has supported more than 1,300 people, including refugees, asylum seekers and young people with disabilities.
Alongside activities and educational programmes, Olasupo distributes food parcels, supports teenagers in difficulty, helps families in crisis and has created housing options for care leavers and refugees at risk of homelessness.
His work has helped young people stay away from crime, return to education, secure jobs, access mental health support and rebuild their confidence.
Khadija Patel, founder of KRIMMZ Girls Youth Club, is being recognised for empowering hundreds of young women in Bolton through sport and physical activity.
She has created a safe, inclusive space where girls from diverse backgrounds can build confidence, develop leadership skills and forge lasting friendships.
Patel’s work has also helped break down cultural barriers, promote equality and strengthen community cohesion across the town.
Image Credits: Public
Television and radio presenter Matt Allwright will host the ceremony, which will be attended by BCA patrons, supporters and guests from across the country.
After the presentation, recipients will take an open-top bus tour around Westminster as a “lap of honour” to celebrate their achievements.
Now in its 11th year, the BCA recognises people who make a positive difference in communities across the UK through volunteering, charity, education, healthcare, business, sport and public service.
