Berkshire Youth celebrated an incredible 85 years of supporting, empowering and inspiring young people across the county with a special 85th Anniversary Awards Evening held on Thursday 23 October 2025 at the Pentahotel, Reading.
The prestigious event brought together young people, volunteers, community leaders, supporters, sponsors, trustees and guests for a packed evening celebrating the achievements and positive contributions of those making a real difference in the lives of Berkshire’s young people.
We were delighted to host a number of special guests, including our Patron, The Lord-Lieutenant of the Royal County of Berkshire, Mr Andrew Try, Mr Sean Taylor, High Sheriff of Berkshire, Mr Lee Dillon MP, Mr Peter Swallow MP, Cllr Alice Mpofu-Coles, Mayor of Reading, Cllr Janet Cochrane, Mayor of Bracknell Forest, Cllr Ellen Hale, Mayor of Bracknell Town, Cllr David Harman, Mayor of Newbury, Cllr Siobhan Dauit, Mayor of Slough, Cllr Mandy Brar, Mayor of Windsor & Maidenhead and Cllr Petra Pemberton, Mayor of Thatcham.
The ceremony placed young people firmly at its heart and was compered brilliantly by Oscar, Eloise, Ez and Frankie. The evening began with a powerful film showcasing Berkshire Youth’s journey over the past 85 years – highlighting how the charity has evolved and been shaped by the needs of young people and their communities.
Guests were also treated to an emotional performance by Aditi Banerjee, who delivered her heartfelt poem ‘Magic’, portraying the magic of youth work and the vital importance of safe spaces and positive activities for young people in our communities. The night closed on a high with an uplifting performance from VoxFresh Children’s Choir, the perfect finale to such a celebratory occasion.
Sarah Emery, CEO of Berkshire Youth, said:
“We’re so proud to celebrate 85 years of Berkshire Youth and to recognise the incredible achievements of young people and those who support them. This event was a wonderful opportunity to reflect on our history and to look ahead to the future as we continue helping young people to thrive.”
In total, twelve awards were presented – six recognising outstanding young people and six honouring community members and organisations who support them.
Award Winners 2025:
The Ray Tapken Young Leader Award: Oscar Tibbels (Newbury)
Hidden Hero Award (sponsored by Xtrac): Glory Oduro-Aniglo (Reading)
Young Carer of the Year: Jenni Vowell (Newbury)
Flourish Award (sponsored by Arena): Georgia Walburn-Green (Newbury)
Resilience Award (sponsored by SNG): Will Clarke (Newbury)
Inspiration Award (sponsored by BMA): Ruby Bremner and Zimal Mansur (Reading)
Volunteer of the Year (The Trustees Award): Eve Hughes (Newbury)
Community Champion Award (sponsored by Reading Buses): Tilehurst Parish Council
Partnership Power Award (sponsored by AP&C): Youth Engagement Slough
Business Champion for Young People (sponsored by 1-Fix): AP&C (Newbury)
Youth Work Champion (The President’s Award): Ainsley Furness (Response – Thatcham)
Outstanding Youth Club (sponsored by World Youth Clubs): Lambourn Youth Junction
