MK Inspiration Awards 2024

Celebrating the Inspirational Winners of the 2024 MK Inspiration Awards

Date : 18 July 2024
Location : MK Double Tree Hotel

2024 Winners!

The 2024 MK Inspiration Awards shone a spotlight on the remarkable individuals, businesses, and organisations that make Milton Keynes extraordinary. These winners exemplify the values of dedication, resilience, and creativity, making a lasting impact on our community. Explore their stories and celebrate their achievements.

Inspirational Role Model

MK Inspiration Awards

Agnieszka McCluskey

A self-proclaimed Positivity Ambassador and author, Agnieszka inspires those around her through her unwavering commitment to spreading positivity. She recently delivered a charity event for the GOOC, which attracted nearly 1,000 guests, showcasing her ability to bring people together for a great cause.

Inspirational Community Champion

Jos Lygo-Baker (MK Cardiac Group)

With over 16 years of volunteering and work with the Milton Keynes Cardiac and Pulmonary Community Group, Jos demonstrates an unwavering degree of commitment to helping members manage their conditions, whether heart or COPD-related. Her dedication has positively impacted countless lives in the community.

Inspirational Young Person

MK Inspired Awards

Cody Jackson

As a member of the Milton Keynes Youth Council, Cody is passionate about helping others and learning from diverse backgrounds. Despite facing challenges like bullying, Cody has shown incredible resilience, using his experiences to fuel his determination to achieve his goals.

Outstanding Local Charity

Curly Tails Pig Sanctuary

Since March 2016, Curly Tails has been rescuing unwanted pet pigs, providing them with a safe and loving home. What began as a passion project 15 years ago has blossomed into a registered charity dedicated to ensuring these animals live happy and healthy lives.

Ride High

Situated in a beautiful 37-acre countryside setting in Loughton, the Ride High Equestrian Centre is home to over 24 horses and provides vulnerable and disadvantaged children with a transformative experience through equestrian therapy. Their work has become a cornerstone of hope and healing in Milton Keynes.

Inspiring Volunteer

Outstanding Achievement Award

Scott Poulter (The Man Cave)

Scott has revolutionised men’s mental health in Milton Keynes with his group, The Man Cave—a safe space for young men to meet, share, and listen. With over 50 attendees, this vital service launched in 2023 and has already proven essential to the community.

Inspiring Fundraiser

MK Inspiration Awards

Gary Spinks

In just six years, Gary has raised over £600,000 for local charities, demonstrating unparalleled commitment to supporting good causes and transforming lives in the Milton Keynes community.

Upcoming Entrepreneur

Charlotte – Betty’s Kitchen

Charlotte brought the concept of gourmet sandwiches and boutique catering to Milton Keynes in 2021. Specialising in corporate catering, office events, and meetings, Betty’s Kitchen has quickly become a go-to choice for delicious and innovative food solutions.

Best Local Business

MK Inspiration Awards

Sweet Sarah – Sarah Nicole Smith

Sarah is a highly talented professional baker whose attention to detail, exceptional customer service, and passion for her craft set her apart. She goes above and beyond to create extraordinary experiences for her customers.

Most Charitable Business

Grumpy Cook Café

The Grumpy Cook Café serves as a community hub for vulnerable individuals, offering nourishing meals and a sense of belonging to those facing challenges such as homelessness, financial struggles, or temporary accommodation.

Hospitality Winners

Hospitality Awards

Inspiring Café/Bistro: Café Sen

Known for its amazing food, outstanding management, and dedicated staff.

Best Restaurant: Five Akhi’s

A family-owned restaurant run by four brothers, delivering exceptional service and a warm, family-like atmosphere.

Best Pub: The Barley Mow (Cosgrove)

A charming 17th-century countryside pub backing onto the Grand Union Canal, offering a warm and welcoming experience.

Creative Arts & Media Winners

Creative ArtsMedia

Best Solo Act: Ollie Corbett

A natural performer known for his charm, fun personality, and ability to connect with his audience.

Best Group Act: Blunden

A groove-infused, three-piece rock band that energises audiences with their powerful performances.

Best Creative Individual:

Natasha Danielle – A poet raising awareness of autism and mental health through her inspirational work.

Best Creative School/Company

My Burlesque – A safe and empowering space for exploring femininity, building confidence, and making lasting friendships.

Inspiring Blogger: Selina Dunn (MK Foodies Club)

Bringing innovative food ideas to the Milton Keynes community.

Social Media Influencer: Sophie etc

Supporting local businesses through her engaging food and lifestyle blog.

Upcoming Content Creator: The Podcast Studio

The exclusive podcast production agency and studio in Milton Keynes.

MK Equality Winners

Equality Awards

Inspiring Person within the Disability Community:

Mrs Marie Andrews – Despite living with severe brittle bones (over 200 fractures), Marie inspires others as an assessor at MK College, using her experience to support and uplift those around her.

Inspiring Community Group within Disability:

Headway Milton Keynes – Offering rehabilitation services and support for individuals and families affected by brain injuries, fostering confidence, independence, and positive change.

Sports Winners

Inspiring Sports Person: Jordan Spencer

Captain of MK Breakers, leading them to back-to-back promotions and numerous MVP awards.

Inspiring Local Team: MK United Women’s Walking Football

From a small group of four to 30 members, this team has achieved incredible success, including joining an FA-affiliated league.

Inspiring Male Fitness/PT/Coach: Ebbz Kpobi

A dedicated coach for MK Galacticos, inspiring the U14s and U8s with hard work and commitment.

Inspiring Female Fitness/PT/Coach: CJ (Mind Fitness Revolution)

A women’s body transformation coach specialising in mindset shifts, strength, and balanced lifestyles.

Education Winners

Education Awards

Inspiring Teacher: Laurie Markatos

Head of Politics and History at St. Paul’s Catholic School, Laurie inspires her pupils through dedication and passion.

Inspiring Higher Education: Open University

A leader in research and education, the Open University supports thousands of students and staff, creating a thriving educational community in Milton Keynes.

Inspiring Secondary School: Stantonbury

Known for fostering respect, responsibility, and resilience in students, inspiring them to achieve their full potential.

Inspiring Primary School: Rickley Park Primary

A school dedicated to providing the highest quality of education, ensuring every child gets the best start in life.

Inspiring Nursery: Teeny Queeny

 Known for their fun activities and innovative themed days that go above and beyond in early years care.

Emergency Health Services Winners

Inspiring Emergency/Health Service: CNWL Perinatal Mental Health Service

Supporting pregnant and postnatal women through vital mental health services.

Inspiring Emergency Worker: Karen Melville

A dedicated police call handler who goes above and beyond for the community.

Inspiring Carer/PA of the Year: Sharon Tingling

A foster carer for over 10 years, helping young people thrive and succeed.

Outstanding Achievement Award

Outstanding Achievement Award

Anthony Harris (Alpha Boxing Club)

For his dedication to keeping young people off the streets and away from knife crime by introducing them to boxing, creating a safe and empowering environment.

Committees’ Choice Award

Outstanding Achievement Award

Anna Kent

A Neurological Conditions Clinical Specialist with 40 years in the NHS, Anna supports individuals with complex conditions while mentoring and guiding carers and families.

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