Urban Synergy made a big impact at the Jack Petchey Awards.
We’re thrilled to announce that Maro Anastasiou, Urban Synergy’s Mentoring Officer, has been awarded the Jack Petchey Leader Award. This prestigious award recognises leaders who make a significant positive impact on young people’s lives across London and Essex. Maro’s dedication to mentoring and supporting our young people has been truly outstanding, and this recognition is a testament to their hard work, guidance, and commitment.
“I feel very honoured to receive the Jack Petchey Leader Award, but for me the real highlight is seeing the young people we work with recognised for their achievements. Watching Chibi, Samuel, Success, Praise, Oluferanmi and Yomitha receive their awards was a proud moment. They represent the determination, creativity and ambition that exists in so many young people when they are given the right support and opportunities. I’m grateful that through Urban Synergy I get to play a small part in their journeys.” - Maro Anastasiou, Mentoring Officer
Young people making their mark
We’re equally proud to celebrate six of our remarkable alumni who have been recognised by the Jack Petchey Achievement Award Scheme, which honours outstanding individuals aged 11–25. For some of our recipients, this is the first time they had ever received an award which makes moments like this even more special.
Our alumni award winners include:
- Chibi Ajero – Fixed Income Specialist at Bloomberg
- Samual Gagatek – Software Engineer at Bloomberg
- Success Morrison – Data Management Apprentice at M&G
- Praise Joseph – Industrial Economics Undergraduate at the University of Nottingham
- Oluferanmi Balogun – Founder of Room Too
- Yomitha Samaranayaka – Co-founder of ZeylonX
These individuals exemplify the power of dedication, skill, and vision. From corporate finance and technology roles to entrepreneurship, our young people are shaping the future and inspiring others in the process.
Join us in celebrating
At Urban Synergy, we believe in nurturing potential, supporting ambition, and creating pathways for young people to thrive. We are proud to see our team and young people recognised on such a prestigious platform.
Congratulations to Maro and all our award-winning young people; your achievements inspire us all!
About the Jack Petchey Foundation
The Jack Petchey Foundation was established in 1999 to inspire and motivate young people across London and Essex to achieve their full potential. The Foundation supports youth organisations, schools and projects with grants and recognition programmes, celebrating young people's achievements and the adults who support them. Since its launch, the Foundation has invested over £150 million in opportunities for young people.
Find out more about how we empower young people through our programmes.