Mayor of Lewisham Business Awards to celebrate local business heroes
The Mayor of Lewisham is set to celebrate the borough’s brilliant local businesses who have supported the community during the pandemic and are leading the borough’s economic recovery from COVID-19.
Following an incredibly tough 18 months, this is Lewisham’s chance to say a big ‘thank you’ to the independent businesses making a difference and to recognise all those going out of their way to support their community.
Mayor of Lewisham, Damien Egan, said:
“The last 18 months has been devastating for local businesses, but the way many of them have adapted and innovated has been inspiring. It’s also been amazing to see how many of them have given back and found ways to support the community, despite going through such challenging times themselves.
“As we take our next steps as a borough, our vibrant high streets and diverse businesses will play a crucial role in our Future Lewisham plans by rebuilding our local economy and creating more opportunities for local people.
“We’ve been running our Shop Safe, Shop Local campaign to shine a light on the brilliant businesses we’re lucky enough to have on our doorstep, and this year’s Mayor’s Business Awards are an opportunity to go a step further and recognise the very best our borough has to offer – so I’d encourage everyone to get involved and get nominating!”
• Growth Builder
• Best Cultural, Creative or Night Time Economy Business
• Social Value Award
• Innovation and Resilience
• Community Space
• Young Entrepreneur of the Year
These categories acknowledge the strength, determination and creativity shown by local businesses throughout the pandemic, as well as the part they are now playing in boosting the borough’s economic recovery.
Cllr Kim Powell, Cabinet Member for Business and Community Wealth Building, said:
“When we talk about businesses, we need to remember there are people behind them. People who have come together to serve and deliver solutions to communities in which they are often rooted. These awards are about celebrating our entrepreneurs, their achievements and their ongoing commitment to those around them and the wider borough. They are also a celebration of community and I’d encourage everyone to nominate their favourite locals.”
Winners from previous years offer a snapshot of the diversity of businesses within the borough. They include zero-waste Shop Without Packaging; social enterprise Ignition Brewery; community hub Catford Mews; Cummin Up Caribbean Restaurants; and production company Video Fusion.
Sponsors for the Mayor of Lewisham Business Awards 2021 include South London Press, Hatcham House, Federation of Small Businesses, Lewisham Local and the South East London Chamber of Commerce, Sasson and Co, and PTP Coaching.
The awards are open for entries via the Lewisham Council website. Nominations close on 19 September 2021 and the winners are to be revealed on 10 November. The judging panel will be announced shortly.