Sport Birmingham welcomed hundreds of people to Edgbaston Stadium for the Community Celebration Awards on November 21st. The awards honoured the best of community sports and physical activity, with 10 awards up for grabs. Guests included community organisations, system partners, local authorities, sponsors, and former Sport Birmingham colleagues. The awards coincided with Sport Birmingham’s 10th anniversary as a charity and highlighted the incredible journey and impact the Active Partnership has had in the city.
The evening began with a lively warm-up by Perry the Bull, followed by a welcome from Mark Taylor, Chair of the Board. The event was hosted by Ama Agbeze, one of Birmingham’s most successful athletes, former captain of the England netball team with over 100 caps. She most notably won gold medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games, was honoured with an MBE for services to Netball in 2019. Furthermore, Ama is a qualified lawyer, broadcaster and keynote speaker! Ama introduced Eloquent Dance, a local dance group that dazzled the audience with their energetic performance. The group’s impressive skills and talent were also on display at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.
The awards kicked off with the Young Achiever Award (sponsored by University of Birmingham Sport & Fitness) which recognised the contributions and achievements of a young individual (under 25) within the sport and physical activity community. Khiaan-Paul Schild won the award for his hard work and determination to overcome personal difficulties at Midland Sailing Club earned him this award. By stepping up as a Young Sports Leader and volunteering regularly, he’s made a real difference in the lives of young people and older members of the club.
The Sport for Good Award (sponsored by Gowling WLG) was awarded to InUnity. The award category highlighted a project or organisation that has significantly contributed to social impact through sport and physical activity initiatives. InUnity were recognised for their work with families in Birmingham hotels. These families have often escaped abusive, traumatic situations to a place of safety, where they are all living in one room, with minimal cooking or washing facilities. InUnity’s sport sessions have provided a much-needed escape for both parents and children, allowing them to forget their troubles and enjoy themselves in a safe environment.
The Outstanding Volunteer Award (sponsored by United by 2022, accompanied by Perry the Bull!) honoured exceptional dedication and service in sport and physical activity and was awarded to Yusra Qasem. Yusra’s commitment to inclusivity and compassion has made a real difference in her community. She empowers young people through football, creating a safe and supportive space for everyone. Her determination to serve others, while balancing her own family life, is truly inspiring.
The fourth award of the night shone a light on significant contributions to education and skill development through sport and physical activity initiatives. The Education Award (sponsored by Birmingham City University) was awarded to Coach Core. Coach Core Birmingham are a force for good. By empowering underrepresented 16-24 year-olds through inclusive sports apprenticeships, they’re creating a brighter future for young people through education. With 70% of apprentices coming from deprived areas, they’re not only improving individual lives, but also strengthening communities.
The Inspirational Story Award (sponsored by Fit Fast Academy) looked to celebrate a person or story within sport and physical activity that has been particularly inspirational and motivational. Zain Khan won the award on the night! Zain’s journey from volunteer to apprentice to Youth Mentor is truly inspiring. He started by helping at local camps and now guides young people at Our Community Foundation, creating community projects and mentoring the next generation of youth workers. His dedication to sports and community development has positively impacted countless young lives in Birmingham.
The Innovation and Creativity Award (sponsored by Mills & Reeve) celebrated innovative approaches in sport and physical activity that have brought about meaningful change. Pitch 2 Progress won the award for one of their standout projects: their Midnight Ramadan League, a partnership with Saltley Stallions FC. This initiative, running from midnight to 2AM during Ramadan, provides a safe space for young people to stay active and connected.
The Inclusion Award (sponsored by National Grid) looked to recognise excellence in promoting inclusion and diversity within sport and physical activity. Jamila Bi won the award by revolutionising archery in the West Midlands through Project Rimaya, by introducing the sport to over 6,000 people. Her passion for the sport and her commitment to sharing its spiritual and historical significance with the Muslim community is truly inspiring.
The Partnership Award (sponsored by Play Innovation) recognised a successful and impactful partnership within the realm of sport and physical activity. The partnership between Saheli Hub and Edgbaston Priory earned the award. By offering squash to women from diverse backgrounds, they’re empowering individuals and challenging stereotypes. The program has already attracted over 40 participants, with around 16 now playing regularly. This is just the beginning of a movement to make squash more accessible to all.
The final individual award of the night was the Leadership Award (sponsored by Vision 4 All) which highlighted excellence in promoting inclusion and diversity within sport and physical activity. Alison Mapp was awarded the penultimate award. Alison’s determination to help young people led her to start Spark Active in 2015. What began as a small operation with 3 staff has grown into a thriving organisation employing over 30 people. By prioritising values like passion, collaboration, and inclusion, Alison has created a positive and supportive work environment to inspire young people.
The final award of the night was the Community Impact Award (sponsored by Street Games) which was awarded for significant positive impact through sport and physical activity on the local community. It was also the most nominated category of the whole evening. Our Community Foundation came away with the award on the night! Our Community Foundation (OCF) are committed to improving the lives of young people in East Birmingham. Through their initiatives, they’ve made a real difference to the lives of over 10,000 young people, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. By encouraging participation in sport and physical activity, they have helped improve the mental health of many in the community, fostering resilience and a stronger sense of belonging.
The night of entertainment didn’t stop there! All guests enjoyed an inspiring athlete Q&A hosted by Ama. Birmingham’s own Lauren Rowles MBE, Maddie Down, and Orlan Jackman shared their stories of success and what the city of Birmingham meant to them.
Lauren Rowles MBE – Paralympic Rower, who became Paralympic Champion for the third successive games in Paris this Summer
Maddie Down – Paralympic sprinter and long-jumper who made her debut in Paris this year at the age of 16
Orlan Jackman – Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth 3X3 Basketball gold medallist, and now playing for Birmingham Rockets
A special Recognition Award was presented to Paul Faulkner in honour of his eight years of dedicated service as Chair of the Board of Sport Birmingham. Paul has been an exceptional leader and advocate for the organisation during his tenure. Thank you Paul.
Sport Birmingham congratulates the ten winners and all shortlisted nominees! The Community Celebration Awards highlighted the best of Birmingham’s sports and physical activity sector. A heartfelt thank you to all of the night’s sponsors, without whom the event wouldn’t have been possible.
Watch this space for 2025!
If you would like to access more photography from the evening, please visit this link: Link to photos.