Islington’s community champions celebrated at awards evening

The Mayor of Islington, Cllr Jason Jackson, last night (23 March) presented the Mayor’s Civic and Ben Kinsella Awards to residents whose community work makes Islington more equal for all. 

This year, the Ben Kinsella Award - created in memory of Ben Kinsella to celebrate a young person making an outstanding contribution in their community – was awarded to Romani Notice, for their powerful commitment to guiding young people away from crime. 

Through the You Lead programme, Romani uses personal experience to inspire young people to make safer choices for their future.   

Meanwhile, the Mayor’s Award for Outstanding Service to Islington – recognising a person whose work reflects the Mayor’s priorities for the year – went to Miriam Ashwell, for her dedication as a member of the Friends of Caledonian Park. She has supported activities from gardening and junior parkrun to many community events. 

Mayor of Islington, Cllr Jason Jackson, said: “I am proud to celebrate the people who make Islington the extraordinary borough it is. In challenging times, it is our community champions - neighbours, volunteers, carers and young leaders - who show us what hope, solidarity and compassion truly look like. 

“Each of our winners has made a remarkable contribution to the lives of others. Their dedication inspires us all, and I am proud to recognise their achievements.” 

The Mayor’s Civic Awards for 2026 were awarded to: 

• Spiros Moraitis and the team at McDonald’s restaurant, for their exceptional commitment to being a Safe Haven. They have supported vulnerable residents, reunited lost children and assisted police during serious incidents. 

• Samira Ahmed, for her inspirational work with the National Youth Theatre and Samuel Rhodes Secondary School. As a deaf and neurodiverse mentor, she uses her lived experience to support disabled and neurodiverse young people into creative fields.  

• Residents Without Borders, an Islington charity whose volunteers support thousands of people each year with free activities for older adults, disabled and vulnerable residents. Their volunteers tackle homelessness, trauma and the cost‑of‑living. 

• Penny Seal, for over a decade leading her community on the King Square Estate. As Chair of the Tenants and Residents’ Association and the ward police panel, she champions safety and inclusion, organises events, supports residents with housing and financial issues. 

• Onyeka, Charlotte and the Vibe4Life team, for creating inclusive, joyful wellbeing activities across Islington. Their dance and exercise events bring together people of all ages and backgrounds. 

• Jane and Mark Webster, for their amazing commitment to the St Jude and St Paul’s food hub. When its future was uncertain, they stepped in to secure donations and support families in need. 

• Christine Meadows, for more than 30 years of compassionate service as a foster carer. She has provided stability, love and guidance to many children, consistently going above and beyond to help young people flourish. 

• Mana Fatima Al‑Sharif Abbas Al‑Sharif, for decades supporting residents on the Bemerton Estate, especially women of Somali heritage and their families. A trusted friend, she helps people access support and champions young people.  

The Central District Alliance BID and Seng Limited were the primary sponsors of the awards evening. Alongside, Mount Anvil, GLL, Marlborough Highways, JOS Property Services Ltd and AD Construction.