Lewisham honours unsung heroes at the Mayor's Community Awards
This year’s ceremony was the biggest yet, with an expanded seven award categories recognising the extraordinary efforts of individuals, volunteers, community groups, and businesses who go above and beyond to make Lewisham a better place for everyone.
The awards received heartfelt nominations, each one telling a powerful story of compassion, resilience, and community spirit. From grassroots food banks and youth mentors to environmental champions and inclusive cultural events, the shortlist reflected the rich diversity and dedication of Lewisham’s residents.
The 2025 award categories were:
- Community Project of the Year
- Environmental Champion
- Local Hero
- Good Business
- Good Neighbour/s of the Year
- Volunteer of the Year
- Young Volunteer/s of the Year
Winners were announced at a special in-person ceremony, where Speaker of Lewisham, Councillor Jacq Paschoud, honoured the finalists and winners for their outstanding contributions. Each awardee was recognised for making a tangible difference in the lives of others, often quietly, consistently, and without seeking recognition.
From tireless volunteers, community hubs to businesses going the extra mile - the awards highlighted the everyday acts of kindness and leadership that keep Lewisham thriving.
Winners on the evening included:
- Community Project of the Year: Hummingbird Social Club, recognised for creating an inclusive, joyful space for older residents through weekly activities, support, and community connection
- Environmental Champion: Mary King and June Mong, awarded for leading the revival of Hatcham Gardens and transforming it into a vibrant, biodiverse community space
- Local Hero: Billy Betson, recognised for his exceptional digital support across Lewisham clubs and his inspiring commitment despite personal challenges
- Good Business: Tarem Services, awarded for tackling in-work poverty, launching a mobile foodbank, and empowering young people through enterprise
- Good Neighbour: Beverly Joseph, recognised for her daily support and care for her neighbour, offering companionship, meals, and practical help
- Good Neighbours: Jovanna Sambacail and Charles Aki-bell, awarded for their life-saving support and daily care of a blind neighbour, ensuring safety and connection
- Volunteer of the Year: Viji Ravindra, recognised for her long-standing dedication to community transport and fundraising through home-cooked meals
- Young Volunteer: Hermond Osango, awarded for running free English classes for refugees and guiding them into education, all self-funded and volunteer-led
Mayor of Lewisham Brenda Dacres said:
“Tonight, we’ve celebrated the very best of Lewisham. The everyday heroes who don’t wear capes, who make our borough shine brighter than any skyline. This is the eighth year of the Mayor’s Community Awards, and it’s bigger, bolder, and more brilliant than ever. Each year, we say it can’t possibly get better, and each year, you prove us wrong.
"To those who have taken home awards, congratulations! To everyone nominated, and to those quietly grafting away without fanfare these awards are yours too! You are the heartbeat of Lewisham.
"A huge thank you to everyone who took the time to nominate someone, your stories are what make this event so powerful. And of course, this evening wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of our sponsors: Lewisham College, Goldsmiths, University of London, Mulalley and Lovall. Your support helps us shine a light on the people who make Lewisham extraordinary".
You can watch a selection of winner videos on the Lewisham Council YouTube channel.