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First up, Ray Winstone and Moore Family Foundation founder Roberta Moore, daughter of West Ham legend Bobby Moore – whose legacy inspires the programme providing academic and mentoring support to disengaged young people – presented the Female Rising Star Award to Thalia Lewis. Thalia, who overcame the risk of disengagement from mainstream education through mentorship and football-themed activities, completed the Moore Family Foundation programme, gained Sports Leader qualifications and became an advocate for others, supporting peers within the Care Leaver programme.
For the Male Rising Star Award, men’s team captain Jarrod Bowen and women’s team vice-captain Shelina Zadorsky took to the stage to hand the award to Haidar Jebara. Haidar travelled from Nigeria to pursue his dream of becoming a professional footballer. Supported through the Foundation’s Post-16 partnership programme with Choices International, despite being in an entirely new environment, Haidar excelled through the programme, engaging well with his peers and even winning the golden boot in the SCL Central London Youth Development League.
Foundation partner and grassroots organisation tackling youth violence in east London Be Heard As One, were recognised for their support in the MyEnds violence reduction initiative with the Inspiring Futures Award, presented by Amber Tysiak and Vladimír Coufal.
Former West Ham defender Anton Ferdinand presented Paragon with the Outstanding Partner Award for their continued support of the Foundation’s initiatives, including sponsorship of the event. Also recognising the fundraising efforts on behalf of the Foundation, Carlton Cole presented Barclays North & East London Team with the Fundraising Excellence Award.
Former Premier League Kicks participant turned schoolteacher Tayyab Hayat was recognised with the Spirit of West Ham Award by fellow east Londoner Mark Noble. The award highlighted Tayyab’s engagement with the charity’s free football programme as a teenager. Facing some of the most challenging and tragic circumstances, Tayyab credits the Foundation’s free football and mentoring programmes for steering him away from knife crime and gang involvement. By accessing free football sessions and mentoring, he forged the inspiring path he is on today, working full-time in a school and part-time as a football and lifestyle presenter.