Aston Villa Foundation celebrates Benjamin Zephaniah Localism Awards

The Aston Villa Foundation celebrated the work of 10 individuals through the Benjamin Zephaniah Localism Awards.

The awards connect to the ‘supporting’ pillar of the Foundation’s strategic function, exploring how the Foundation can play a role in empowering and becoming an advocate for micro-community and charitable organisations within the city of Birmingham. 

Coinciding with Benjamin Zephaniah Day, the awards honour the life and legacy of the legendary writer and poet, casting a spotlight on those who have embodied 'localism' in their community:

Through his initiative ‘Why Not I,’ Kofi Josephs integrates mental well-being education into athletic training, emphasising the development of mental resilience alongside physical skill. He also painted a vibrant mural on the Summerfield Park basketball court, symbolising Birmingham’s spirit and inspiring local youth to engage in community activities.

Growing up in Aston, Darnish Amraz MBE was influenced by serious violence and anti-social behaviour. He started working with thousands of young people at risk of involvement in serious violence, changing their attitudes by building relationships and supporting them into further opportunities.

Through ‘Transformation for Change’, Jadieal Millwood developing a mentoring and youth outreach framework, providing over 2,000 young people with access to trusted adult mentors.

Anwar Khattak and Waheed Ayoob have served their community for the last 25 years with Birmingham Youth Sport Academy. They are active within the communities around Villa Park, connecting with partners, breaking down barriers and seeing local people into employment or further education.

Through sports and art workshops, Leon Moses has made impact reducing knife-related incidents, fostering a culture of positivity, reliability, and safety, ensuring that every young person feels supported and valued.

Keith Shayaam-Smith is described as a positive role model for local black creatives and social entrepreneurs. He is nominated for the award for his contributions to the Legacy Centre of Excellence in Newtown, where both creatives and entrepreneurs can expand and develop their skills to thrive in competitive markets.

17-year-old Jacob volunteers at The Good Food Club and Community Café, displaying empathy, kindness and care to others. Jacob understands the importance of community for human connection and establishing safe spaces.

Toqueer Quyyam is a climate and social justice campaigner, passionate about championing for those from ethnic minorities to talk more openly about climate change, whilst also looking for ways to overcome barriers to accessing the countryside and green spaces.

Amran Ellahi created a supportive, inclusive, and thriving environment for all volunteering at The HeArt Centre, a local voluntary community project which provides a stimulating environment to educate and bring people of different cultures & faiths together, learning and exchange for all.

Nine-year-old Aryan is a person with autism who is non-speaking, has inspired his community to be more inclusive of children with SEN needs. With his father, he attends the Foundation’s SEND Youth Club every Friday at King Edwards VI Aston School and has helped campaign for children with further needs to receive free school breakfasts, as well as making the community a safer place for children.