Salford celebrates lifelong learning at adult awards ceremony

The event, organised by the Salford Learning City group and partners, highlighted the power of education in building confidence, resilience, and opportunity, and celebrated individuals from the many cultures, backgrounds, and experiences that make the city unique.

With opportunities for learning that range from language classes and digital skills to creative arts and vocational training, Salford offers pathways for everyone to grow, connect, and thrive. The awards highlighted how these opportunities empower individuals to overcome challenges and build brighter futures.

Cllr Teresa Pepper, Lead Member for Skills, Work and Business Support at Salford City Council, said:

I would like to congratulate all of the nominees and ultimate winners. You are shining examples of what adult learning in Salford looks like. All learning is important and enriches and adds value to everyone's lives. It doesn't have to happen in a classroom and certainly doesn't end when we leave the classroom!

Arts, culture, dancing, singing,crafting, performing, cooking, learning a language, organising events, are all just as important as more conventional learning in the more traditional subjects and settings.”

A highlight of the event was the launch of The BIG Salford Poem, a powerful collective piece written by over 100 adult learners from across the city. The poem captures the spirit, resilience, and pride of Salford through the voices of its people, celebrating shared memories, cultural diversity, and the transformative impact of learning. From childhood games in ginnels to community centres and corner shops, the poem paints a vivid portrait of Salford as a place of sanctuary, creativity, and belonging.

A video, curated by John O’Neill, Creative Director at UP ‘ERE Productions and Cara McFarlane, an independent creative and performance artist, has also been produced in line with the poem.

Award winners and their stories

The Adult Learner of the Year award: Grace Edge

Grace Edge and Mat Ainsworth, Director of Skills, Work and Inclusive Economy at Salford City Council. Photo by Grace Pearson

Grace’s learning began with a welfare-to-work programme where she completed courses in Health and Safety, Customer Service, IT, and English. She then undertook an administration work placement at Inspiring Communities Together CIC, mastering CV writing and workplace skills. Her dedication saw her complete over 18 online courses independently. Today, Grace is employed with a housing organisation and has even helped her partner secure work using the techniques she learned.

The Unsung Hero award: Deborah Tesfaye

Jayne Allison (Inspiring Communities Together) and Deborah Tesfaye. Photo by Grace Pearson

Since coming to Salford from Eritrea 18 years ago, Deborah has learned English, gained new skills, and launched the Salford Love Community Café, a hub for cultural exchange and learning. She runs homework clubs for Eritrean and Ethiopian families, supports refugees with food and clothing, and advocates for their integration into mainstream society. Recently, she established the Selam Language and Culture Association as a charity.

The Braveheart award: Michelle Mott

A representative collected Michelle's award on her behalf. Photo by Grace Pearson

Michelle overcame severe barriers in her personal life to engage with The Lowry’s learning programmes. She has since curated exhibitions, contributed to theatre programming, and founded The Quiet Space, a youth group for neurodiverse young people. Her courage even took her to London for an awards ceremony, something she previously never imagined would be possible for herself.

The Jugglers award: Erika Rusanovaite

Erika Rusanovaite. Photo by Grace Pearson

Despite a difficult past and language barriers, Erika has completed English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) and parenting courses, became a peer mentor, and helped launch Diversity Youth, a summer club for Special Educational Needs (SEN) families. She now leads workshops and co-facilitates community arts projects. Erika’s ability to juggle parenting, learning, and community leadership while overcoming adversity has been extraordinary.

The Brilliance Beyond Labels award: Bohdan Horobets

Phil East (Salford Foundation) and Bohdan Horobets. Photo by Grace Pearson 

Bohdan, a Ukrainian refugee and neurodivergent learner, mastered web development and game design through a series of intensive courses. His technical skills and creative thinking shone during a hackathon, where he led his team to victory. Beyond coding, Bohdan has grown into a confident collaborator and mentor, proving that neurodiversity is a strength and not a barrier.

The Connector of the Year award: Mei Kuen Choy

Mei Kuen Choy. Photo by Grace Pearson

Mei Kuen is the cornerstone of Salford’s Hong Kong community. She attends ESOL classes, has volunteered at over 40 events, and leads multiple groups promoting employment and cultural integration. Her tireless efforts to connect people and raise funds for young people make her a true bridge-builder in Salford.

The Stepping Stones award: Maria Herrama

Sandrine Beaunol (Elevate) and Maria Herrama. Photo by Grace Pearson

After experiencing a truly difficult past, Maria rebuilt her life in Salford. Despite her worries and language barriers, she embraced learning, attending college and walking to classes to ensure she never missed a day. Her advice to other adult learners, “things will get better, one step at a time,” reflects her determination to succeed.

The Mike Thorpe Transformation award: Stacy McKeown

Francine Thorpe and Stacy McKeown. Photo by Grace Pearson

Stacy’s 13-year journey from unemployment to becoming a qualified social worker started with a Future Jobs Fund placement, where she discovered her potential, progressed through roles in Adult Social Care, and completed a social work degree apprenticeship. Her achievements shows the life-changing impact that learning can have.

The Spark Award: Bibiana De Souza

Bibiana De Souza. Photo by Grace Pearson

Bibiana has brought creativity and joy to Salford residents through community art projects. From wood carving to embroidery, she has exhibited her work at The Lowry and encourages others to explore their talents. Her commitment to lifelong learning has helped her overcome isolation and rediscover confidence.

The Unintentional Teacher award: Adnan Khalaf

Dave Meyers (The Broughton Trust) and Adnan Khalaf. Photo by Grace Pearson

Adnan arrived in Salford from Syria and quickly became a pillar of support for fellow ESOL learners. He translates key information, helps with worksheets, and provides a welcoming environment for other learners. His kindness and community spirit have made him an invaluable part of the learning community.

The Learning Without Walls award: Lamya Habash

Yolanda Ghola (Community Upskilling) Lamya Habash. Photo by Grace Pearson

Lamya started learning in pre-entry ESOL and progressed to entry level 2 through sheer determination. She practices English everywhere she goes, volunteers to gain real-life experience, and now has ambitions of opening a beauty salon.

Want to find out about adult learning opportunities in Salford? Visit our adult learning in Salford webpage by clicking here or email skillsandwork@salford.gov.uk.