Proud Places wins Employer of the Year at the Southwark College Awards

Congratulations to our Proud Places team who won Employer of the Year at the Southwark College Awards last week.

Proud Places team members Ife Davies and Beth Leong were thrilled to win the award, in honour of their hard work and dedication in giving students from Southwark College work experience opportunities, building their skills and confidence.

Amie Fofana, from Southwark College commented, “We’re so grateful for the time, opportunities and encouragement Proud Places has given our students. It’s made a real difference. We look forward to continuing our partnership in the upcoming academic year and building on the great work we’ve done together so far.”

Ife Davies said, “This is our first award from a school that we have been working closely with this year; it’s encouraging for the Proud Places team to know that in helping young people navigate their future every effort counts!

“We started working with 18 students in January 2025, and to date our work with students has grown to 40.

“We have had the privilege of seeing these students grow in confidence, produce amazing work and step out of their comfort zones to speak in public. The Proud Places programme supports students in reaching their full potential by offering alternative ways of learning.

“It was truly inspiring attending their end-of-year awards, learning about each young person’s achievements, and an honour to share the stage with them!”

The Proud Places programme has included site visits to Christchurch Fountain in Southwark and the Surrey Street fountain in Croydon; creative workshops, and careers and presentation skills workshops as well as work experience for Southwark College students.

The programme is supported by the Jones Day Foundation and has involved more than 8,500 people since 2020. Last year we hosted 54 young people for work experience.