Hackney Community Organiser Receives Prestigious British Citizen Award
In a ceremony at the Palace of Westminster, Tskenya-Sarah Frazer from the London Borough of Hackney was among 26 remarkable individuals honoured with the distinguished British Citizen Award (BCA). This esteemed recognition celebrates their exceptional contributions to society and their unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in their communities.
Medal of Honour for Community Service
The medal presentation saw Tskenya receive the coveted BCA Medal of Honour for Services to Community, officially designated with the post-nominals BCAc. As an active community organiser in Hackney, she has dedicated ten years to uplifting her inner-city neighbourhood, focusing on creating sustainable change and supporting vulnerable residents.
Decade of Dedication to Food Security and Support
For the past decade, Tskenya has been instrumental in supporting local food banks, working closely with Precious Lives Food Bank. This vital service provides over 100 people each week with essential supplies, equating to more than 5,000 food packages distributed over the last two years alone. Her efforts ensure that families facing food insecurity receive consistent and reliable support.
Beyond Food Distribution: Holistic Community Engagement
Tskenya's volunteering extends far beyond food distribution. She actively fundraises for community initiatives, organises cultural trips for both young people and the elderly, and engages in direct lobbying with local partners and councillors. Her work ensures that support is sustainable and that entire families are connected with comprehensive wraparound services, addressing multiple aspects of need.
Championing Diversity, Inclusion, and Safety
Passionate about diversity and inclusion, Tskenya actively works to break down barriers and foster understanding across cultural, ethnic, and social divides. By encouraging open dialogue and challenging biases, she is helping to make Hackney a more inclusive and empathetic place for all residents.
In her role as Chair of the local tenants and residents association, she has collaborated with Hackney Police Ward and the Council for ten years to promote safety in the area. Tskenya advocates tirelessly for transparency, accountability, and safer neighbourhoods, ensuring that the voices of the most marginalised community members are heard and represented in decision-making processes.
Recognition from BCA Patrons and Supporters
Dame Mary Perkins, founder of Specsavers and a patron of the British Citizen Award, praised Tskenya's contributions. “Tskenya is a true unsung hero and a shining example of what it means to be a community champion,” she said. “Their positive impact embodies real citizenship and shows just how powerful local action can be. At Specsavers, we care deeply about the communities we are part of and we believe people like Tskenya are vital to helping them thrive. Their story is genuinely inspirational, and this accolade is thoroughly deserved.”
The presentation was hosted by television and radio presenter Konnie Huq, with attendance from BCA patrons including Dame Mary Perkins and The Lord Mott OBE. Representatives from supporting organisations such as Specsavers, Places for People, Novus Property Solutions, and Aldermore Bank were also present to celebrate the achievements of all award recipients.
Celebrating Community Impact Across the UK
Following the ceremony, medallists enjoyed an open-top lap of honour tour, taking in some of Westminster's iconic sights. This celebratory event highlighted the positive impact that these dedicated individuals have made on communities throughout the length and breadth of the United Kingdom, showcasing the power of local activism and volunteerism.
