Centrepoint Awards 2024 celebrates the achievements of young people with experience of homelessness

Six key areas of success were highlighted, including:

The Rising Star Award, sponsored by Nationwide Building Society, recognising those who made significant strides in their careers. This Award was won by Aimee, a young rapper with cerebral palsy, in recognition of the significant strides she has made in her career.

The Centrepoint Partners Award acknowledged the efforts of young people and organisations working to end youth homelessness. Anya showed a unique strength to move on from the darkness in her childhood and to create such a bright future not only for herself, but also as an advocate for other young people facing homelessness. Alongside excelling in her exams, she has drawn on her lived experience to influence politicians, to support LGBTQ+ people in her local area and to start a performing arts group which is now creating shows on both sides of the Atlantic.

The Educational Excellence Award, sponsored by Amy Lam, recognised young people who have showed outstanding commitment to their education and academic careers. Cassán won this award for her sheer determination to fulfil her dreams. After completing her A-Levels and getting the grades she needed, she secured a Centrepoint bursary to study Fine Art at university and is now a qualified Art Teacher. 

The Inspirational Award, celebrated young people who have profoundly inspired others through their actions, achievements, and courage to overcome obstacles. Shannon worked hard to overcome and live with her mental health struggles, to build a strong group of friends and to move into her own tenancy. Wherever possible, she also speaks up for other young people who’ve experienced homelessness. 

The Personal Development Award, sponsored by Coventry Building Society, honoured those who have overcome significant challenges, developed new skills, or achieved personal milestones that demonstrated growth in their personal lives. This award was won by Toni-Ann who was made homeless 10 times as a child and often lived in unsafe and unsuitable temporary accommodation. Now, she is determined to ensure no-one else is put in that position, taking on every opportunity to champion Centrepoint and to speak up for the young people it supports. Having been forced to use foodbanks in the past, she has gone on to be a foodbank volunteer handing out the parcels she used to rely on.

The Independent Living Award, sponsored by The Clarksons Foundation, recognised those who achieved significant independence despite facing personal or societal challenges, demonstrating resilience, self-sufficiency, and determination. After leaving care, award winner Andrew struggled to balance studying with the cost of living in London but after moving into Centrepoint’s Independent Living accommodation he flourished, to not only complete his apprenticeship but to be an advocate and fundraiser for other young people.

Seyi Obakin CEO of Centrepoint, said: “The Centrepoint Awards serve as a powerful reminder of the incredible transformations young people can achieve when given the right support. Our nominees and winners have overcome significant barriers and have made remarkable strides in their lives, whether through further education or apprenticeships. It is an honour to celebrate their achievements and to acknowledge the vital role our corporate partners play in tackling youth homelessness.”

Presenters on the night included The Prince of Wales, Centrepoint’s Patron since 2005, Lady Kitty Spencer, West Ham Footballers Katrina Gorry and Jarrod Bowen, Radio and TV Presenter Yinka, her Actor brother Kola Bokinni, Actor Lisa Maxwell, and BBC Radio 1 Presenter Dean McCullough.

The audience also enjoyed performances from a fantastic line-up of stars including music from Rag’n’Bone Man,  Beverley Knight, and Joe Devlin, Toni-Ann and Rana, who have first-hand experience with homelessness. Comedian Dara Ó Briain also performed a side-splitting comedy set.

The Centrepoint Awards was supported by Nationwide Building Society as part of their Fairer Futures programme, which aims to support those who have faced significant challenges across generations.