The Albion Foundation proudly celebrated the achievements of young people, schools, partners and staff at its second annual Premier League Funded Programmes End of Year Awards, bringing together participants, families and supporters for an evening of recognition and celebration.
Held on Friday, July 10, 2026, at the Mercure Hotel’s Prince of Wales Suite, the event showcased the success of Premier League Primary Stars, Premier League Inspires and Premier League Kicks. The awards provided an opportunity to recognise the outstanding contributions and achievements made throughout the academic year by participants, educational settings, community partners and colleagues across The Foundation’s Premier League-funded programmes. The awards build on the success of the Foundation’s inaugural Premier League Awards event, which was launched to celebrate the people who help shape and benefit from the programmes.
Hosting the evening was West Bromwich-born actor, writer and content creator Rupi Lal. Known for his engaging personality and strong local connections, Rupi brought warmth and energy to the celebrations as he guided guests through the evening’s awards presentations.
Before the ceremony got underway, guests enjoyed a buffet and had the opportunity to reflect on the year by sharing their favourite Albion Foundation memories on a dedicated poster board. The display quickly filled with stories and highlights from participants, demonstrating the positive impact the programmes continue to have across local communities.
A range of awards were presented on the night, recognising individuals and organisations who have demonstrated commitment, resilience and excellence throughout the year. Categories included the Above and Beyond Award, Inspire to Achieve Award, Outstanding Partnership Award, Primary Stars Champion Award, Albion Aspirations Award, Kicks Legacy Award, Community Partnership of the Year Award and the Colleague’s Choice Award.
The awards highlighted the achievements of participants who have overcome challenges, embraced opportunities and embodied the values promoted through Premier League Primary Stars, Premier League Inspires and Premier League Kicks. The evening also celebrated the schools, partners and staff members whose dedication continues to make a meaningful difference to the lives of young people across the Black Country.
Award winners received a trophy in recognition of their achievements, alongside a goody bag filled with gifts and keepsakes. Included was a specially designed keyring created by Happiness is Handmade, an entrepreneurial project run by students at partner school Shireland CBSO. The initiative provides young people with the opportunity to express their creativity, develop valuable enterprise skills and raise funds for the school through the creation of handcrafted products.
Alongside the awards, guests were treated to a selection of sweet treats from Bakes by Alcina, who provided cake pops and specially decorated Albion Foundation biscuits. These proved to be a popular feature and added an extra touch of celebration to the evening.
Another standout attraction was the 360-degree camera experience provided by CK Lights and Events. Complete with a variety of props, the feature gave guests the opportunity to create fun videos and lasting memories with friends, family and fellow participants throughout the evening.
The Albion Foundation would also like to extend a huge thank you to Utopia Party and Events Company, whose room decorations and impressive balloon arch helped transform the Prince of Wales Suite into a fitting venue for the occasion.
The event once again demonstrated the positive impact of The Albion Foundation’s Premier League-funded programmes and the importance of recognising the achievements of those involved. As highlighted during the Foundation's first Premier League Awards, celebrating young people's efforts and sharing their success stories plays an important role in inspiring future achievements and recognising the dedication shown throughout the year.
Congratulations to all award winners and nominees, and thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the evening such a memorable celebration of another successful academic year.
