We had a magical evening at the Celebrating Communities Awards at All Saints Church, earlier this month! With over 300 guests in attendance, it was a night with the spotlight on the very best of our borough and the heart and soul of our community that are our invaluable volunteers.

A huge congratulations to all the nominees and winners! You really are an example to us all! Watch the winners interviews here.

Unsung Hero Award - Tracey O’Shea, Kingston Churches Action on Homelessness (KCAH)

Young Volunteer Award - Emily Forey, Young Carers

Community Fundraiser - Sarva Kumararajah, Centre for the Healthy Mind (Tamil Community Development)

Community Team Award - The Kingston Talking Newspaper

Working in Partnership Award - Refugee Action Kingston Community Hub / RBKares

Volunteer Impact Award - Sheena Crankson, Fastminds Adult ADHD Support Group

Lifetime achievement Award - Patricia Monro, Refugee Action Kingston and Beverley Wan, Kingston Chinese Association

Reflecting on the successful event, KVA CEO, Sanja Djeric Kane, said: "Volunteering and community  engagement are good for absolutely everyone and make Kingston a healthier, better and happier place. Let’s hope these awards become a tradition, so we can celebrate volunteering and great work of the local VCSE organisations even more."

We would also like to thank all our fantastic colleagues at RBK and the many voluntary organisations involved in organising the event together with KVA. And last, but certainly not least, a heartfelt thank you to All Saints Church for their support throughout, the beautiful venue, entertainment and catering.