Luton has celebrated the contribution of 30 residents whose work has made a lasting impact on the town’s black African and Caribbean communities.
The annual Black Unsung Heroes Awards were held at Luton Town Hall, recognising individuals whose efforts often go unseen but play a vital role in supporting communities across the borough. The awards are organised by Luton Council’s Social Justice Unit and are now in their third year.
This year’s recipients were nominated by members of the public, with the council saying the response reflected the depth of appreciation for people making a difference at grassroots level. Since the awards were launched, almost 100 individuals have been recognised for their commitment to building a fairer and more inclusive Luton.
The ceremony also featured performances and contributions from across the town’s cultural scene. Music was provided by Luton Music Service Senior Strings, led by Chris Doggett, alongside performances from local singers Christine Akele and Forever Oji. Poetry readings came from the Elders Poetry Windrush group, while local business owners Marcus Gittens and Maxine Dwyer and award-winning filmmaker Niya Tailor shared personal stories during the evening.
The event forms part of the council’s wider work to tackle racism and address inequality. Last year, the authority signed UNISON’s Anti-Racism Charter, building on a cross-party Black Lives Matter motion passed in 2021 that committed the council to improving outcomes for Black residents in areas including employment, education, health and justice.
Community leaders from black African and Caribbean communities, who helped shape that original motion, continue to advise and challenge the council as the work develops.
The awards night also highlighted other initiatives aimed at tackling inequality in the town, including the ‘We Are Luton’ campaign, delivered through Luton’s Community Safety Partnership, and the citizen-led Luton Fairness Taskforce, which focuses on practical steps to reduce social exclusion.
Cllr Maria Lovell MBE, portfolio holder for women, equalities and community safety at Luton Council, praised those honoured at the ceremony.
“Our Unsung Black Hero award winners are a true force for change in Luton,” she said. “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.”
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