Telford Community Basketball CIC, which holds weekly sessions at Telford College, has won a national award.
It has been crowned the national winner of the Positive Impact Award at the prestigious Growing Business Awards 2025 in London which recognise inspiring organisations transforming lives across the UK.
Telford Community Basketball CIC was honoured for its exceptional work in building a community where age, ethnicity, background, and religion are no barriers to belonging.
The initiative has become a powerful movement that uses basketball as a catalyst for unity, confidence, mental well-being, and positive pathways for people of all ages.
With weekly sessions at Telford College, as well as Charlton School in Wellington, the CIC has grown into one of Telford’s most impactful community organisations.
The project supports individuals from across the community, including:
- Young people seeking structure and belonging
- Children and teens with care-experience backgrounds
- Adults and families navigating loneliness or disconnection
- Individuals looking to improve physical and mental health
- Anyone simply wanting a safe, fun, inclusive space to stay active
Founder and director Dr Hezron Ottey said: “This national award is an honour not just for us, but for the entire community of Telford. It recognises the heart and purpose of what we do – bringing people together, breaking down barriers, and creating a space where everyone feels they belong.”
Participants now span a wide age range, from 10-year-olds in the new under-16s Sunday session at Charlton School to adults in their 40s and 50s who enjoy the social, physical, non-competitive and emotional benefits of inclusive, community-based sport at Telford College’s Wellington campus.
Dr Ottey added: “To be recognised in London is an incredible moment. This award celebrates the resilience, unity, and positive energy of every single person involved in this movement, our players, parents, volunteers, partners, and supporters.
“We are excited to build on this momentum and continue bringing people together through basketball, empowerment, and community spirit.”
