The Grand Royale Banqueting Hall was the setting for the Luton Youth Awards on 17 July, an evening that brought together young people, civic figures, education partners and local businesses to mark the achievements of the town’s next generation.
Recognising young talent and community contribution
Organised by the Next Generation Scheme and supported by headline sponsor Barnfield College, the ceremony honoured 15 award winners and 15 highly commended young people across multiple categories. Since the awards were launched in 2025, organisers say a total of 60 young people have now been acknowledged as winners or highly commended, a sign of the breadth of youth activity across the town.
Speakers and guests included several civic leaders and public figures. Among those in attendance were the Deputy Lieutenant Joan Bailey, the High Sheriff of Bedfordshire Ismail Anilmis, the Mayor of Luton, Councillor Javed Hussain, and former Youth MP Yousuf Mohammed. The event also featured a musical set from singer and social media performer Shawn Michael Mulvihill.
Why the awards matter locally
Luton has a notably young population: roughly 46% of residents are under 30, making it one of the youngest towns in the country. The awards are designed to showcase and encourage leadership, creativity and community involvement among young residents, and organisers hope the recognition will help recipients access further opportunities.
- Event: Luton Youth Awards (organised by Next Generation Scheme)
- Date: 17 July
- Winners/Highly commended: 15 winners; 15 highly commended
- Since 2025: 60 young people recognised
- Headline sponsor: Barnfield College
- Charity partner: Level Trust
The ceremony also highlighted a partnership with Level Trust, named as the official charity partner for this year’s awards, supporting the charity’s work to ensure children in Luton have the resources they need to learn and thrive.
Categories and notable winners
A range of awards were presented to reflect different kinds of achievement, from academic progress and community action to sport and the arts. Available details from the event include:
| Category | Named recipient (where provided) |
|---|---|
| Inspirational Person of the Year | Aimee Longley |
| Student of the Year | Lily Robert |
| Sportsperson of the Year | Chanelle Michael |
The full list of winners and highly commended projects was assembled by the Next Generation Scheme and published alongside event coverage.
What this means for young people in Luton
Organisers and supporters argue the awards do more than confer recognition: they help raise profiles, unlock networks and encourage continued civic engagement. For a town where nearly half of residents are under 30, initiatives that identify and back young leaders can have a meaningful long-term impact on local services, volunteering and civic life.
Local schools, colleges and youth groups looking to nominate candidates or learn more about future awards should contact the Next Generation Scheme or Barnfield College for details of deadlines and categories.
The Luton Youth Awards will return next year, with organisers aiming to broaden partnerships and continue highlighting the work of young people across the town.
