The main award this year recognised two women, Florence Kahuro and Veeca Smith. Overcoming significant personal challenges, Florence and Vee have worked closely together to champion the rights of vulnerable families living in asylum accommodation in Halifax. Through their organisation, Sisters United, the duo are fighting to improve housing conditions and help refugees settle into their new lives. They take people to hospital, register their children for school meals, organise toy collections and help find school uniforms for families who can’t afford them. Each week, they help 50 women of 17 nationalities, including a homeless British woman.

Brimming with energy, confidence, and hope, Florence and Veeca are incredible connectors and organisers. They have successfully built bridges between people and institutions in Halifax, creating a supportive and informative network, and redefining what community means.