Celebrating the Heart of Broxbourne

The Broxtown Community Champion Awards honour individuals who have made a lasting, positive impact in our Borough through their dedication, empathy, and selfless service. Whether through their profession or voluntary work, these champions uplift our community, enriching the lives of others in countless ways.

Following the completion of the nominations, we have an incredible lineup of nominees from across the borough, each celebrated for their outstanding contributions to the community. This is your chance to learn more about these inspiring individuals and cast your vote for the champion who stands out to you.

Voting is now open and runs until 6th December! The winner will be revealed in a special edition on Monday, 9th December 🎉.

Here Are Your Community Champions

Nominee: Barry Cressey

Goffs Oak Community Champion Nominee

Barry Cressey is a cornerstone of the Goffs Oak community, dedicating over a decade of his life to serving and uplifting those around him. As Chairman of the Goffs Oak Community Association, Barry has been a pivotal leader, guiding the organization through challenging times, including the COVID-19 pandemic, when he and just two others kept the association running. Today, thanks to his efforts, the Association thrives with a full committee of 12 local residents.

Barry’s commitment to the community is exemplified by his remarkable service in organizing and coordinating the annual Remembrance Sunday Service for over 10 years. His most recent event, on November 10, 2024, brought together more than 300 attendees, reflecting the trust and respect he has earned in Goffs Oak.

A proud resident of Goffs Oak for more than 20 years, Barry is passionate about improving the quality of life for all. He serves as Vice Chair of the Valley View Surgery’s Patient Participation Group, advocating for enhanced healthcare services and working to address the needs of the community. Beyond his formal roles, Barry and his wife actively support wildlife charities and provide care for homeless cats, showcasing their compassion and dedication to causes beyond their immediate surroundings.

Barry’s vigilance in monitoring planning applications ensures that developments align with government guidelines and preserve the unique character of the Goffs Oak landscape. His tireless efforts in liaising with community members, council staff, local councillors, and the MP highlight his diligence and commitment to representing residents’ interests.

Barry’s unwavering energy and devotion to Goffs Oak have left an indelible mark, making him a true champion of the community.

Do you think Barry should be the next Broxtown Community Champion? Cast your vote now!

Nominee: Maria Vaciago

Empowerment Advocate and Anti-Bullying Champion

Maria Vaciago is a children’s author whose inspiring stories and empowering workshops have touched the hearts of children and adults alike. Her books, rooted in her personal experiences, are a testament to resilience and overcoming adversity, and her work in the community over the past 4-7 years has made a profound impact.

Maria’s journey began with her own experiences of bullying, which later resurfaced when one of her sons faced similar challenges. Determined to turn pain into purpose, Maria began writing and leading workshops that inspire children to build confidence, overcome bullying, and strive toward their goals.

Through her relentless efforts, Maria has become a beacon of hope for hundreds of children in the borough. Her workshops, often held in local schools, tackle the issue of bullying head-on with innovative approaches that resonate deeply with young minds. Just during the recent Anti-Bullying Week, Maria reached nearly 500 children, empowering them with tools to address bullying and boosting their self-confidence.

Maria’s passion and dedication are evident in the numerous children who have stepped forward to seek help after attending her workshops. Her unwavering commitment to making a difference ensures no child feels alone or powerless. Beyond her professional achievements, Maria’s kindness and genuine care for others shine through in everything she does.

Her contributions to the borough are invaluable, and she stands out as a relentless advocate for change, a voice for the voiceless, and a true asset to the community.

Do you think Maria should be the next Broxtown Community Champion? Cast your vote now!

Nominee: Kev Orkian

Entertainment Visionary and Community Builder

Kev Orkian is a globally renowned entertainer whose career spans over 30 years, captivating audiences with his performances in West End productions, international comedy tours, and at top comedy clubs. But Kev’s contributions extend far beyond the stage—he is a visionary entrepreneur dedicated to enriching communities through live entertainment and creative collaboration.

In January 2024, Kev opened Hertfordshire Studios in the heart of Hoddesdon, a thriving creative hub he calls a “house of creative visionaries.” Since its inception, the studio has become a vibrant center for live performances, events, and artistic collaboration. It also serves as a launchpad for local talent, offering green screen facilities, rehearsal spaces, casting rooms, and more. Looking ahead to 2025, the studio promises exciting new projects, including a membership platform for film and TV enthusiasts, free community concerts, kids’ workshops, choir classes, and the revived Jongleurs Comedy Club.

Kev’s dedication to fostering community bonds is evident in initiatives like the weekly “Stitch and Bitch Club,” where local sewers craft costumes for productions while sharing creativity and camaraderie. Through Hertfordshire Studios, Kev empowers artists and creators to bring their visions to life, whether by producing social media content or exploring ambitious film and TV projects.

Kev’s entrepreneurial spirit and passion for bringing people together through the arts have made Hertfordshire Studios a cornerstone of the Hoddesdon community. His work not only supports emerging talent but also enriches the cultural fabric of the borough, making Kev Orkian a true champion of creativity and community.

Do you think Kev should be the next Broxtown Community Champion? Cast your vote now!

Nominee: Helen Dobson

A Visionary Leader and Advocate for Cheshunt’s Growth

Helen Dobson has spent over two decades dedicated to the growth and vibrancy of Cheshunt, a town deeply rooted in her family’s legacy. Her family’s business, Dobsons, has been a cornerstone of the community on Turners Hill since 1935, reflecting a commitment to quality and tradition that spans generations. For Helen, Cheshunt isn’t just home—it’s her heritage, and her passion for the town’s success runs deep.

In September 2023, Helen co-founded Love Cheshunt with Calogero Dileto of The Bed Gallery, an initiative aimed at fostering collaboration among local businesses and strengthening the bond between businesses and residents. Through Love Cheshunt, Helen has championed a vision of a vibrant and connected town where people can shop, dine, and build a thriving community.

Under her guidance, Love Cheshunt has already hosted several successful free family events, attracting new visitors and creating opportunities for local businesses to shine. She has also built a vital communication network for business owners, encouraging them to share ideas, overcome challenges, and support one another.

Helen’s plans for 2025 are ambitious and inspiring, with more community events and initiatives in the pipeline to enrich Cheshunt’s social and economic fabric. Her tireless efforts have already made a significant impact, bringing new life to the heart of the town and creating a sense of unity among residents and businesses alike.

Helen Dobson’s leadership and vision for Cheshunt make her a true champion of community spirit and economic development.

Do you think Helen should be the next Broxtown Community Champion? Cast your vote now!

CAST YOUR VOTE HERE