Mayor's Civic Awards 2009

Nine Islington residents and three community groups have been recognised for their outstanding contribution to the borough.

Held on Thursday 12 March at Islington Town Hall, the Mayor’s Civic Awards ceremony was a celebration of community pride.

Islington's Mayor, Cllr Stefan Kasprzyk, was on hand to congratulate the winners and thank them for their tireless effort to make our borough a wonderful place to live.

2009 Winners

Ngoma Bishop is a community activist who dedicates much of his free time to lending a hand in Islington. Secretary of the New Orleans Tenants and Residents Association, Ngoma launched a ‘stop the violence’ campaign, bringing together the local community, police and the council in response to knife crime. Ngoma is also the founder of the New Orleans Griffins – a local youth football team.

The Blackstock Road Triangle Neighbours is a group of residents who make an invaluable contribution to their community. Comprising 122 households, residents arrange a number of events, such as street parties and festivals, to help create a thriving and supportive neighbourhood.

Katerina Chrysostomou has spent many years offering interpreting services to Greek Cypriots. After emigrating to London in 1948, Katerina taught herself to speak English through personal interactions and newspapers. Now, Katerina accompanies friends and acquaintances alike to hospital and GP visits, often spending much of the day offering both her language skills and support.

Rev. Ronald Frost manages Islington Boys’ Brigade – the local branch of the national programme which provides activities for young people between five and 18 years old. Passionate and committed, he has helped many young boys and men channel their energy in a positive way.

Matthew Humphreys is a founding member of the EC1 New Deal for Communities Board. Chair of the Board since 2005, Matthew has dedicated countless hours to getting the best for EC1 residents.

At just 18, Robert Lock has already had a great impact on his community. Robert shows great passion and has made integral contributions to several EC1 New Deal for Communities events.

Dolores Murray has her finger in plenty of community pies. A foster carer for almost three decades, Dolores led the way in the fight against the closure of the Essex Road Post Office and Bingo Hall. She is also a member of The Zimmers – a band which gives a voice to the feelings of isolation suffered by the elderly.

Nicky O’Connell has used his own experiences to help others overcome addiction and recognise their potential. He has worked voluntarily in prisons, in the community and with the Pilion Trust’s Enhanced Community Outreach Service. Nicky also set up a drop-in at a local community centre to support individuals and families fighting addiction.

The Olden Community Garden Project is a group of volunteers who have revived the charming green space in the heart of Highbury. During the past year alone they have raised over £45,000 towards improvements to the garden, including a new pond and paving.

The 16 members of the Volunteer Walk Leader Team have helped promote health and community spirit in the borough. With an average age of 70, the volunteers lead regular walks for older residents as part of Islington Health Walks.

Julie West was instrumental in getting the Popham Community Hall youth club up and running. By working with the Safer Neighbourhood team, she reached many young people and the club is becoming increasingly popular. Her successful funding applications mean the club will continue to grow. Julie also organises community parties which help bring residents together.

Tracey Willoughby is one of Islington’s most tireless volunteers. Whether as a Director for Elthorne Regeneration, Area Representative on the Elthorne Housing Panel or as a representative of the Islington Parents Forum, Ashmount School Parent/Teacher Association or Anti-Bullying Board for Islington, Tracey is constantly working to improve the borough.