Broxbourne Crowns Community Champion of 2024!

We are delighted to announce the results of this year’s Broxtown Community Champion Awards, a heartfelt initiative to honour those who have gone above and beyond to make Broxbourne Borough a better place. After weeks of nominations, voting, and incredible community participation, the results are in, and we’re excited to celebrate the individuals who have made a lasting impact in our community.

🏆 Winner: Kev Orkian

Entertainment Visionary and Community Builder

Kev Orkian’s contributions to the borough go far beyond his internationally acclaimed career as an entertainer. In January 2024, Kev launched Hertfordshire Studios in Hoddesdon, a creative hub that has quickly become a centerpiece for community engagement, artistic innovation, and live entertainment.

Why Kev Won:

• Community Impact: Hertfordshire Studios is not just a venue—it’s a lifeline for local talent. It provides rehearsal spaces, green screen facilities, casting rooms, and more to support budding artists and creators.

• Creative Initiatives: Kev’s programs, like the “Stitch and Bitch Club,” offer a unique blend of artistry and social connection, empowering residents to come together and create.

• Vision for the Future: In 2025, Kev plans to launch free community concerts, kids’ workshops, choir classes, and the revived Jongleurs Comedy Club, ensuring Hertfordshire Studios remains a beacon of creativity.

Through his passion and entrepreneurial spirit, Kev Orkian has enriched Broxbourne’s cultural fabric, making him a true champion of creativity and community.

🌟 Runner-Up: Maria Vaciago

Empowerment Advocate and Anti-Bullying Champion

Maria Vaciago has transformed her personal experiences into a powerful mission to inspire and uplift children in the borough. As a children’s author and workshop leader, she has reached hundreds of young minds, equipping them with the confidence and tools to overcome adversity.

Why Maria Stands Out:

• Advocacy Through Action: Maria’s anti-bullying workshops, held in schools across Broxbourne, have provided invaluable support to nearly 500 children during this year’s Anti-Bullying Week alone.

• Inspiring Resilience: Her books and sessions, drawn from personal experiences, resonate deeply with children, encouraging them to face challenges with courage.

• Community Impact: Maria’s dedication has created safe spaces for children to seek help, ensuring no child in the borough feels powerless or alone.

Maria’s tireless efforts to address bullying and empower young people make her a shining example of what it means to be a true community champion.

Honoring All Nominees

While only one winner could be chosen, we want to take a moment to recognise all the nominees who embody the spirit of community service:

• Barry Cressey of Goffs Oak Community Association

• Helen Dobson of Love Cheshunt and Dobson dynasty

Their contributions have left a lasting mark on our community, and they are an inspiration to us all.

Breakdown of Voting

Next Steps: What’s Coming Up

📜 Awards Presentation:

• Kev Orkian, our winner, will be presented with a certificate and a gift in recognition of his achievements.

• The Broxtown Team will visit Kev to present the certificate and award this weekend.

📰 Special Follow-Up Edition:
On Monday, we’ll publish a special edition of Broxtown featuring exclusive details and photos from the awards presentation. This will include:

• Highlights from the ceremony.

• Interviews with the winners and nominees.

• A closer look at their work and future plans.

A Heartfelt Thank You

To our readers, voters, and nominees—thank you! This award would not have been possible without your enthusiasm and support. Your votes and voices have helped shine a light on the incredible individuals who make Broxbourne Borough a wonderful place to live.

This award belongs to everyone who participated, whether by voting, campaigning, or supporting their favorite nominees. It’s a true reflection of the community spirit that defines Broxbourne.

Looking Ahead: Get Involved

Do you know someone who deserves to be recognised as a Broxtown Community Champion in 2025? We want to hear their story! Whether it’s a neighbor, a friend, or a local leader, let us know about the people who inspire you.

📧 Submit nominations or share feedback at: [email protected]
🌐 Stay connected with Broxtown for more community stories and updates.

Together, we celebrate the everyday heroes who make our borough a better place, one act of kindness at a time. Let’s keep this momentum going and continue to support those who make a difference.

Congratulations to our winner, and to all our nominees, and voters—you’re what makes Broxbourne shine! 🎉✨