Celebrating the best of Harrow

• 12 new Harrow Heroes awarded for their remarkable contributions to the community
• Healthy Harrow Community Champions stole the spotlight winning Team and Volunteer of the Year
• Tributes were paid to beloved community members, celebrating their legacy that continue to inspire

Local stars took centre stage at last night’s Harrow’s Heroes awards. From tireless volunteers to community champions, 12 outstanding individuals and teams were crowned 2025 winners – each one highlighting the dedication and incredible Harrow’s volunteers have on the borough.

Held at the Great Barn at Headstone Manor, more than 100 guests including our inspiring finalists and winners, generous sponsors and local dignitaries gave thanks and recognition to unsung heroes who make our borough a special place to live and work. This special evening would not have been possible without our many sponsors this year, including our headline sponsors Imperium Resourcing and Wates Residential.

Among the evening’s standout moments was the double award win by Harrow Health Community Champions, who took home both the Team of the Year Award and Volunteer of the year for Award. Reaching thousands of Harrow residents, their work through the Healthy Harrow initiative has been nothing short of transformative – raising awareness about cancer screening and healthcare services among underrepresented communities. Many of these champions volunteer beyond this initiative, championing a wide range of public health efforts with passion and pride.

Neelam Patel from Healthy Harrow Community Champions, said:

“What an incredible night! It’s fantastic to be recognised for the work our champions carry out. Our team of volunteers are passionate about raising awareness and improving the health and wellbeing of Harrow residents.

“This award is a testament to their hard work and dedication which we are all so proud of. It’s an honour to be awarded not one but two awards – and meet many other worthy finalists and winners.”   

The evening also paid heartfelt tributes to two beloved community figures who passed away earlier this year. John Williams was honoured posthumously for his lifetime contribution to the Stanmore community, and Bipin Dattani, last year’s Volunteer of the Year, was remembered fondly for his enduring impact. Their legacies continue to inspire.

Cllr Janet Mote, Cabinet Member for Community and Culture, shared her reflections:

“I’m proud to live amongst some amazing local heroes. Tonight we celebrate the very best of Harrow – and it’s even more special this year as we mark our 60th anniversary. Everyone here has a powerful and inspiring story that reflects the dedication, commitment and impact they bring to our borough. They are true Harrow Heroes.

“It’s been wonderful hearing about the incredible work that takes place behind the scenes to make Harrow a great place to live and work. Congratulations to all our finalists and winners.”

2025 Award Winners  

Pride in Harrow – Keith Hewat

• Keith has been a driving force taking Harrow Pickers from strength to strength. Despite personal challenges, Keith has helped the group grow, strengthened ties with local authorities, and played a key role in achieving charity status. His calm leadership and unwavering commitment make Harrow cleaner, stronger, and more connected

Contribution to the Community – Yusuf Yusuf

• For 16 years he has helped vulnerable residents through supporting at risk young people and families and leading campaigns against FGM. His tireless work and activism has mad lasting impact in Harrow.

Bringing People Together – Claire Allen

• Claire leads the NOMAD Girls project providing a safe, empowering space for young girls to connect, grow and support one another. Her work and lived experience creates a nurturing community where girls feel heard, valued and inspired.

Good Neighbour – Shila Vyas

• For over a decade, Shila Vyas has been a lifeline for elderly residents across Harrow, Brent, Barnet, and beyond. She organises weekly events, checks in on people in all weather, and ensures they feel safe, seen, and cared for. Her warmth, dedication, and tireless service make her a true pillar of the community — always smiling, always giving.

Health and Wellbeing – Harrow Trampoline Club

• This team are more than just coaches, from helping athletes overcome personal challenges to building lasting friendships and confidence, they create a space where wellbeing thrives. They’re mentors, motivators and mental health champions.

Outstanding Young Person – Zahir Walsh

• After recovering from a BMX accident, Zahir didn’t just get back on the bike, he relaunched BMX coaching at Harrow Bike Club giving young riders a safe place to train, grow confidence and stay active.

Extraordinary Achievement – Majib Chowdhury

• Majib has made a life-changing impact through his fundraising for Harrow Shop Mobility. Through determined fundraising efforts, Majib funded around 10 wheelchairs. These chairs give residents with mobility challenges the freedom to stay active and independent.

Supporting Vulnerable People – Jeremy Child

• He brings joy and connection to people with learning disabilities and those who are isolated through Community Connex. From walks and quizzes to choirs and concerts, he creates an inclusive environments that makes a real differences to the lives of those he supports.

Team of the Year (Highly Commended) – Roxeth Show Committee

• The Roxeth Show Committee brought a beloved tradition back to life after a decade-long absence. With no budget and only a dream, this dedicated team united schools, traders, and community groups to deliver a vibrant celebration in South Harrow. Their work restored pride, joy, and a sense of belonging — proving that with heart and teamwork, anything is possible.

Team of the Year – Healthy Harrow Champions

• The Healthy Harrow Community Champions are a diverse team of volunteers who’ve reached thousands with life-saving cancer awareness and public health education. Speaking 23 languages and offering one-to-one support, they’ve broken down barriers and built trust across Harrow. Their continued commitment to health outreach makes them an essential force for wellbeing and inclusion.

Lifetime Achievement (Posthumous) – John Williams

Lifetime Achievement – Marilyn Lilian Dedridge

• At 89 years old, Marilyn Dedridge celebrates 50 years of service as a swimming teacher at Harrow Leisure Centre. She has taught thousands — from toddlers to disabled learners — with compassion and dedication. Her advocacy for inclusive swimming and her lifelong commitment to teaching have shaped generations. Marilyn’s legacy is one of quiet strength, inclusion, and life-changing impact.

Volunteer of the Year – Healthy Harrow Champions