Meet The Recipients - 2024/25

Molly has volunteered with Caxton House Community Centre for many years, playing a key role in the centre's operations, contributing across various roles and supporting numerous events. Molly has been instrumental in creating opportunities for young people, celebrating the diversity within the community, and encouraging volunteering to foster cohesion and ensure residents have a voice and can access the support they need. Throughout her work, she has helped families and young people to access opportunities and build strong relationships, setting a positive example for others. 

As an extension of her work at Caxton, Molly has been working with Elthorne Pride, a residentled community project, to organise and run events, fundraise, network, and establish a youth club in the area. She has been instrumental in delivering half-term workshops for children, young people, and their families, serving as a role model for others. 

Molly was instrumental in raising funds for a defibrillator to be installed outside Caxton House Community Centre, and has arranged multiple sessions with young people and Street Doctors to ensure the safety of the community

New River College is a specialist school in Islington dedicated to supporting young people, many of whom have complex needs, including special educational needs, traumatic life experiences, and are vulnerable to exploitation and gang involvement. The staff at New River College provide a safe and nurturing learning environment, offering a broad curriculum to help students reach their full potential. Through a combination of academic and vocational subjects, the school equips students with the skills, qualifications, and confidence needed for future success. New River College and Arsenal have worked closely for over fifteen years to support young people in accessing school, developing football skills, and helping students make positive life choices. The school's commitment to its students has been monumental in developing confident learners, ready to thrive and lead healthy and safe lifestyles.

Sharley is the driving force behind the NW5 Community Play Project, serving as the Youth Centre Manager, fundraiser, chief executive, mentor, and role model for countless young people. NW5 Project is more than just a centre; it's a safe haven where young people can be themselves, build confidence, develop friendships, and find a sense of belonging.

Sharley's dedication to the community extends far beyond her managerial duties. She is constantly seeking new opportunities for the centre, such as trips, football, art classes, cooking workshops, and educational programs. Her tireless efforts have secured a 7-year unrestricted funding partnership with Camden Council, ensuring the centre’s long-term sustainability. Sharley's empathetic approach to working with young people has fostered a deep sense of trust within the community. Her genuine and open nature creates a safe space where young people feel supported and understood, regardless of their challenges. Sharley's commitment to the community and her ability to connect with young people make her an invaluable asset to NW5 and Camden. 

Will has been a driving force in grassroots football for decades, starting with his work at Copenhagen Youth Project and Fitzrovia Youth in Action, as well as years in sports development with Camden Council. Since the inception of the Regent’s Park Youth League in 2000, Will has been a cornerstone of the league, providing thousands of children and young people with invaluable opportunities to play football and develop their skills.

His commitment goes far beyond just organising matches. Will has dedicated himself to coordinating tournaments, events, and training courses for both coaches and referees, ensuring that the league not only continues to grow but also nurtures the development of everyone involved. His passion for football is deeply tied to his love for Arsenal, and he has consistently championed Arsenal in the Community, supporting various initiatives throughout the years. Will continues to work closely with Arsenal in the Community to expand the girls' game locally, and his leadership and support has been instrumental in driving this effort forward. His contributions to grassroots football have been extraordinary and wide-reaching.

A dedicated community pillar, Mitchelle Greenaway generously gives her time, skills, and energy to support those in need. As co-founder of Jigsaw-GC CIC and founder of REM Wellbeing Counselling Service, Mitchelle has made a significant impact on countless lives through her volunteer work and advocacy. With over 16 years of experience in the education sector, Mitchelle has worked extensively with young people and families, offering mentorship, life coaching, and psychotherapy. 

As a wellbeing facilitator, she provides compassionate support with a non-judgmental approach. As an accredited psychotherapist with the National Counselling Society, Mitchelle has spent the past six years offering therapy to adults, children, and families through her own company, Jigsaw with a focus on both immediate needs and long-term emotional and psychological well-being. Beyond her private practice, Mitchelle continues to serve as a full-time therapist, social-emotional and wellbeing practitioner, and behavioural teacher across London. Her unwavering dedication to supporting young people helps them navigate the complexities of life and education. Mitchelle's contributions to the community are invaluable. She has touched countless lives through her volunteer work and advocacy, always going above and beyond to ensure everyone receives the support they need. Her commitment to the well-being of others, coupled with her extensive experience and professional expertise, makes her a beacon of hope and a true asset to the community.

Ellen, a former Arsenal Ladies player and England international, has made a significant impact both on and off the pitch. During her playing career she won numerous accolades and her experience as a top-level player has greatly influenced her approach to coaching and mentoring the next generation of footballers.

As Director of the London Football School, an FA Accredited Grassroots club in North London, Ellen is dedicated to providing high-quality football coaching and development opportunities for young people. With a focus on inclusivity and community engagement, LFS works with hundreds of children each year, helping them develop their football skills, foster a love for the game and create a safe and positive environment where young people can grow, learn, and enjoy the sport, regardless of their background.

Recently awarded the Lionesses Award for her outstanding contribution to the development of the women’s and girls’ game, Ellen's commitment to empowering young girls through football is evident in everything she does. She has worked closely with Arsenal in the Community on various initiatives to increase playing opportunities for young girls in Islington and beyond, making football more accessible and inclusive for all. In addition to her work with London Football School, Ellen also manages the Islington Girls District sides, where she continues to inspire and nurture young talent.

Zak is a youth worker and community leader who has spent 15 years empowering disadvantaged young people in Islington by engaging them through football, helping them secure employment, education and training, and advocating for those facing school exclusions. Becoming a certified football coach at 16 allowed him to enter youth work and use football as a tool to steer young people away from serious youth violence and substance misuse. He is a prominent figure within the Somali community in Islington and stands as a source of support and strength for young people.