Young volunteers receive their awards
35 young people were celebrated at the Youth Leaders and Youth Volunteers Award ceremony on Thursday 27 November.
The event recognised the achievements of young people who undertook the Voices of Youth Creating Empowerment (VOYCE) 12-week programme, and other influential young volunteers that have helped throughout the year.
The awards ceremony spotlighted the dedication, positivity and impact that young people have had in the community, with awards spread across eight categories. This included youth leadership, Violence Against Women and Girls young advocates, and young people leaving care.
An outstanding contribution award was also presented to 12-year-old Kathleen Woodstock for the work she does across youth centres in the borough, after battling eye cancer when she was a baby.
The event was celebrated by young people, youth workers, families and friends, as well as the Deputy Mayor of Tower Hamlets Maium Talukdar,Cabinet Member for Education, Youth, and Lifelong Learning.
Cllr Maium Talukdar said:
“It’s inspiring to see so many young people actively contributing to their communities. Volunteering is a powerful way to make a difference, and it’s been incredible to see our young people make such an impact.
“I’ve really enjoyed hearing about the diverse projects that our young volunteers have led, and I look forward to seeing what the Voices of Youth Creating Empowerment programme achieves in the future.
“Thank you to all of the young people who have given their time, effort and energy to volunteering. I hope today’s event motivates you to keep up the amazing work you’re doing.”
During the event, guests were treated to performances from young volunteers, including dancing and motivational speeches. The evening was hosted by Eira Khan from the VOYCE programme, and Danie Momh, a dedicated member of the Youth Council.
The VOYCE 12-week programme is a scheme for young people aged 16-21 (or up to 25 with SEND) in Tower Hamlets to volunteer three hours of their time each week in youth centres across the borough.
VOYCE encourage young people to lead their own project, campaign, or youth-led session to tackle issues like mental health, online safety, or put on creative activities to bring people together, raise awareness, and create change.
The initiative is run by Young Tower Hamlets, the council’s £13.7million investment into its youth provision, offering opportunities, support and safe spaces for young people in the borough.
Anyone interested in joining the VOYCE programme can email hayley.mullin@towerhamlets.gov.uk
Posted on Wednesday 3rd December 2025