Two Bolton community champions who have transformed the lives of hundreds of local people are set to be honoured at the Palace of Westminster later this month.
Tunde Olasupo and Khadija Patel have been named among 28 recipients of the prestigious British Citizen Award (BCA), which recognises people making an outstanding contribution to communities across the UK.
The pair will receive their awards during a ceremony at the Palace of Westminster on Thursday, July 23.
Tunde will receive the British Citizen Award Medal of Honour for Services to Community in recognition of his work supporting young people through Believe Achieve, the Bolton youth hub he founded following the devastating loss of his baby son.
Turning personal tragedy into a mission to help others, Tunde established Believe Achieve as a safe and welcoming space for young people.
Since then, it has supported more than 1,300 people, including refugees, asylum seekers and young people with disabilities.
Alongside providing activities and educational opportunities, Tunde delivers food parcels, supports struggling teenagers, helps families in crisis and has developed housing solutions for care leavers and refugees facing homelessness.
His work has helped young people stay away from crime, return to education, find employment, access mental health support and rebuild their confidence.
Also being recognised is Khadija Patel, founder of KRIMMZ Girls Youth Club, whose work has empowered hundreds of young women across Bolton through sport and physical activity.
Khadija has created a safe and inclusive environment where girls from a wide range of backgrounds can build confidence, develop leadership skills and form lasting friendships.
Her programmes promote teamwork, resilience and healthy lifestyles while encouraging education, wellbeing and personal development.
Through her work, she has also helped break down cultural barriers, promote equality and strengthen community cohesion.
Stephanie Wood, from British Citizen Award partner One Stop, said: "This year's medalists exemplify the incredible support within our communities, especially during challenging times.
"We're honoured to partner with the BCA and play a part in recognising these exceptional individuals."
The ceremony will be hosted by television and radio presenter Matt Allwright and attended by British Citizen Award patrons, supporters and guests from across the UK.
Following the presentation, recipients will take part in an open-top "Lap of Honour" bus tour around Westminster in recognition of their achievements.
Now in its 11th year, the British Citizen Award celebrates people who make a positive difference in communities across the UK through volunteering, charity work, education, healthcare, business, sport and public service.
