After a four year hiatus, Fight for Peace’s Annual Awards returned with a bang in early December with a bumper ceremony hosted at the Fight for Peace Academy.
The Annual Awards is a moment to look back at the year past and reflect on and celebrate the outstanding achievements of young people accessing services and programmes at Fight for Peace.
Awards recognise a broad range of achievements by young people, reflecting the breadth of activities on offer at Fight for Peace. While of course young people’s sporting prowess was celebrated via junior and senior awards in boxing, muay thai and mixed martial arts, in addition there were categories for outstanding contributions to youth leadership, personal development sessions, homework club and employment progression.
The evening, which saw Fight for Peace staff and members past and present gather in the Academy’s main gym, also paid tribute to young people who have stood out by living the values of Fight for Peace – Embracing, Solidarity, Champion, Inspiring, and Courage.
The evening also provided the opportunity to officially present Jack Petchey Achievement Awards to all of the Fight for Peace winners from across 2024. The Jack Petchey Achievement Award Scheme recognises outstanding young people aged 11-25 across London and Essex, with winners receiving £300 grants to spend at their organisations, as well as a certificate to show for their efforts.
Members of the Fight for Peace Young Creatives were on hand to cover the event, providing live updates on social media, the photography featured in this article, and a short film due to be released very soon – great job team!
The event was hosted by former Fight for Peace member and current volunteer Zaynab, alongside the organisation’s CEO Lee.
Reflecting on the event, Lee said: “This was a brilliant opportunity to come together to celebrate the achievements and dedication of the incredible individuals who make Fight for Peace so special.”
“From the inspiring journeys of our young people to the unwavering commitment of our team and supporters, the evening was a powerful reminder of what happens when we live by our core values and make champions in the ring and champions in life!”
Following the main awards ceremony, everyone in attendance gathered in the Academy hub to enjoy food and drinks together, a tradition that always brings team Fight for Peace together.
A huge well done to all of the award winners, to everyone who came and helped make the event a success, and to all of the young people and staff members who have contributed to another wonderful year in the Fight for Peace story.
