The inaugural Croydon Youth Awards were held on June 25 at Fairfield Halls, celebrating young people aged 11 to 25 who are making a positive impact in the borough. The student-led event, organized by Croydon College with support from local charities and headline sponsor Croydon Drop In, aimed to challenge negative stereotypes that often associate Croydon with crime and violence.
Changing Perceptions Through Recognition
Winners and nominees emphasized that growing up in Croydon offers opportunity, diversity, and community. Tanisha Khan, a Croydon College student nominated for the Community Impact Award, said: "There are a lot of good people and youngsters in Croydon, we are just not seen enough." She added that outsiders often misunderstand the area: "People think, especially round here in East Croydon, it is just where stabbings happen, but we are also very expressive with our culture."
Fellow student Em Farley-Sales agreed: "I think the smaller minority often misrepresents the larger majority. Having an award that is focused on our youth will help get rid of those stereotypes and show that this is not just where crime happens."
Twelve Awards Highlight Diverse Achievements
The ceremony presented twelve awards recognizing achievements in environmental stewardship, digital impact, sport and wellbeing, innovation and enterprise, academic excellence, musical talent, community impact, personal growth, resilience and inspiration, kindness and inclusion, creative expression, and young leadership. One winner, Naimah Khan, received the Personal Growth and New Beginnings Award for promoting inclusion by encouraging staff and peers at Croydon College to use British Sign Language and AAC communication.
Naimah said growing up in Croydon played a positive role in her development, stating: "Croydon has given independence." She also felt safe in the area and noted that "it's getting safer."
Community and Diversity Celebrated
Students highlighted Croydon's diversity as a key strength. Olivia Powell, a college student and opera singer, said: "You get lots of people coming from different places. It's just good to be surrounded by those people and experience those different things." Ras Kassa praised the welcoming nature of the area and college: "I didn't even grow up around here. Since coming to Croydon College, they have accepted me like a family. You feel included."
Em Farley-Sales added: "Nowhere else in the country have I been that has such a strong sense of community and unity with its neighbours than in Croydon."
Event Host and Speeches
The event was hosted by Croydon community activist Anthony King, leader of the Majestic Youth programme. Performances included opera from Olivia Powell, and a speech from Croydon Mayor Jason Perry. Shaun Polley, CEO of Croydon Drop In, said: "Croydon is a vibrant and diverse community, and its young people are its greatest strength. These awards shine a light on the inspiring achievements, talent, and determination of the next generation."
Caireen Mitchell, Croydon College Group Principal and CEO, stated: "What makes these awards so special is that they are led by young people themselves - reflecting their voices, their priorities and their vision for the future. From acts of leadership and creativity to quiet determination and community spirit, each story we recognise speaks to the power and potential of the next generation." She added: "At a time when we must challenge negative perceptions and celebrate what truly defines Croydon, these awards play an essential role."
