BBC 'unsung hero' award for Bolton youth club volunteer

Khadjia Patel was chosen for the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Award’s “unsung hero” for the North West for her work with the Rumworth based KRIMMZ Girls Youth Club.

Thanks to her hard work, the group now has more than 360 members taking part in sports including swimming, netball, football, skiing, yoga, cricket, archery, squash and fitness classes.

Receiving her award from the BBC, Khadija said: “I feel proud but there’s a lot of work still to do.

“Socialising and getting exercise, physical activity as well, it’s making huge impact.”

She added: “It’s an honour and a privilege to be awarded this.

Khadija with her award (Image: Public)

“I just hope that I can make a difference to our community and its going to go a long way.”

KRIMMZ was founded in Bolton in 2009 and since then Khadija has helped to build networks across the community, in particular helping to ensure that all members’ religious convictions are supported.

She has helped to ensure that people joining from all walks of life feel welcome and accepted.

Khadija with former premier league footballer Sol Campbell (Image: Public)

Khadija has also built up strong relationships with groups like Snowsports England, the Football Association and the Lancashire Cricket Foundation.

Cllr Rabiya Jiva, of Halliwell, said: "Khadija is a truly inspirational figure in the community and we're so happy to see her recognised for the incredible work she does.

"She's done so much for so many people and this award is just one way of honouring her wonderful contribution.

Khadija has been honoured for her incredible work with KRIMMZ (Image: Public)

"Everyday she makes Bolton a better place and I can't wait to see everything else that I'm sure she will receive in the future."

Khadija was nominated by nominated by Sporting Equals Partnership Manager Gemma Parry.

She said: “The work Khadija has done in the Bolton and Greater Manchester area through her volunteer work is truly transformational.

ALSO READ: Pioneering mountain bike girls honoured for 'resilience, courage and self belief'

ALSO READ: Youth club celebrates artworks and gets ready for 'green spaces' project

ALSO READ: Harmony Youth Project holding after school club

“She breaks down barriers to access and inclusion every single day, her enthusiasm, passion and determination to offer physical activity for all is nothing short of relentless.

“Not only does she aim to have people engaged in activity, but also to build a lasting legacy of infrastructure in both the clubs local area of Bolton and the wider Greater Manchester area.

“She does this through ensuring that young people coming up through her programme give back to the next round of participants through volunteering and becoming coaches, leaders and themselves, future policy makers.

“Khadija is the most inspiring woman, I cannot wait to see what 2024 bring for her and her community.”