An incredible 169 young people from youth organisations across Greenwich, Bromley, Bexley, Croydon and Lewisham came together to receive prestigious Jack Petchey Foundation Achievement Awards presented at the Churchill Theatre on 11th July.

The event honoured Achievement Award winners aged 11-25 who received medallions to go with their framed certificate and a cheque for £250 each, already presented. They were nominated by their peers and leaders, winning awards for a variety of achievements big and small but always for doing their best.

In addition, 21 adults were also celebrated with Leader Awards who have demonstrated, in an outstanding way, an ability to motivate young people. They received a medallion and a framed certificate.

Youth clubs and organisations in South East London have received funding of over £424,600 from the Jack Petchey Foundation.

Paralympic Gold Medallist and former world record-holder, Danny Crates who presented the awards said, "It’s great to be in South East London seeing the talent of our younger generation shine through. Something I’ve learnt as a Paralympian athlete is that achieving your dreams is never easy- it requires hard work and perseverance, and these young people have shown that they have what it takes to get what they want out of life. Congratulations to you all!”

Winners included Katie Morgan, aged 17, who attends Magpie Dance, Bromley. Magpie Dance is a contemporary dance charity for people with learning disabilities. Katie is being awarded for her increased commitment to dance and the impact this has had on her confidence and communication skills. Since taking part in extra sessions each week, Katie has demonstrated a significant improvement in her movement memory, her ability to take on board feedback and her ability to work quickly. She was previously largely non-verbal and is now really chatty during sessions. Natasha, Magpie’s training coordinator said “It has been wonderful to observe how an increase in structured activities has had such a huge impact on Katie’s development this term.”

Oliver Briars, aged 14, is a member of Blackheath & Bromley Harriers. Oliver always works extremely hard in training. He has broken the Kent Championship records for 300m this season, recently winning gold for this event at the Kent Championships and is now ranked number three in the country! More importantly, he is a true asset to the team, being more than happy to fill in at events to gain points for the club and always doing so with a smile.

Ruby Bell, aged 15 is part of Telstars Netball Club, Bromley. Ruby has worked hard all season and shown great dedication to her club and her netball practice. She was selected for the 2017 Under-16 Squad and made her mark at this year's National Finals in April. She is a key part of the Under-15 line up as an established goal shooter with heaps of potential.

Charlotte Jenman, aged 12, who is a member of United Judo, Bexley. Charlotte won this award for being one of the most hard working, focused members the club has have ever had. She is the current British champion in her age and weight group, thanks to her attending training up to four times a week! This year, she won bronze in a competition in Venray Holland, regarded as the toughest competition in Europe. To come back with a bronze medal is an amazing achievement and a great example to her peers of what hard work can achieve. Charlotte will soon be representing United Judo in the British Nationals which her team are hoping will lead to a position with the GB squad. She is an inspiration to the whole club.

Tyler Carney, aged 16, is a part of Croygas Football Club, Croydon. Tyler has been volunteering as a coach for the Croygas Pirates, the club’s mixed pan-disability team. Tyler is a talented, patient coach and his confidence has grown each week working with the Pirates. The players respond extremely well to him; he has been invaluable as a coach for this diverse and challenging group.

Sir Jack founded the Jack Petchey Foundation in 1999 to recognise the positive contributions young people make to society and to support them in achieving their potential. Since then it has provided support to a wide range of 2,000 initiatives supporting young people across London and Essex and has reached a milestone investing £100m.

Sir Jack Petchey CBE aged 91, said “I am passionate about our awards scheme which enables young people to be recognised, valued and rewarded for their achievements and positive contributions to society.”

Submitted by Emma Wakeling