Finalists in the Individual Award included Ahmed Owusu-Konadu, who is secretary of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community group.

Source: eveningtimes.co.uk

THE round of applause as every finalist took to the stage last night nearly brought the house down.

Under the ornate vaulted ceiling of Maryhill Community Central Halls, nominees for the North-West round of the seventh annual Community Champion awards had their moment in the spotlight.

Hosted by Evening Times columnist Michelle McManus, the hard work and dedication of the city’s unsung individuals were recognised.

Finalists for the Team Award were volunteers at Milton Food Hub group, who have learned landscaping, building and gardening skills to create a community garden which is now thriving with produce.

Possobilities was established in 1984 by people with disabilities to provide opportunities for all. They run community initiatives such as a daily café, a laundry service and social clubs offering activities for those who are often isolated or lack the confidence or support they need.

While, the Clutha Trust was set up after the fateful accident in November 2013. Volunteers deliver music projects to young people all across the city who might not otherwise have access to musical instruments, tuition or the opportunity to attend music gigs.

“We didn’t expect to be nominated, it was a surprise,” says Dutch Rukowski of the Clutha Trust. “We set up nearly a year ago, and everyone has put in a lot of hard work. It has given us all a boost to be nominated.”

Finalists in the Individual Award included Ahmed Owusu-Konadu, who came to Glasgow as an asylum seeker and has become an important member of his community.

He is secretary of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community group and runs the youth programme at the mosque which aims to reach out and involve younger members in the area.

“It is very humbling to be nominated. I belong to the Muslim community and this is all part of my faith. I didn’t do it for any of this.”

Catriona Lessani has been organising the Sapphire Gymnastics Club for the past five years and… read more at eveningtimes.co.uk