Wandsworth learners celebrated for inspiring achievements

The event celebrated learners who have developed new skills, overcome personal challenges and used learning to pursue new opportunities in work and life

Awards were presented by Councillor Lynsey Hedges, Wandsworth Council’s Cabinet Member for Opportunity, alongside Beverley Corson, Chief Executive of Wandsworth Chamber of Commerce. The event was held at Burridge Gardens Community Centre, Clapham Junction.

Around 2,500 adults enrol each year with Wandsworth Council’s Lifelong Learning service, and this year’s award winners were nominated by their tutors in recognition of their commitment and achievements.  

Among those recognised was Tetiana Tanska, who arrived in the UK from Ukraine three years ago unable to speak English. She has shown remarkable commitment to developing her English skills, attending classes twice a week, with the ambition of teaching music which is the profession she followed for 20 years in Ukraine.  

Hani Mohamed has been taking ESOL classes so she can better support her children with their education and communicate with their teachers. She now hopes to become a teaching assistant and said: “It’s never too late to learn, age is just a number.”  

Councillor Lynsey Hedges said: “It was wonderful to celebrate the achievements of this year's learners and I was really moved by their inspiring stories. Lifelong learning can make a real difference, giving people opportunities to develop new skills and confidence to get on in life and work and fulfil their potential.” 

Other award winners included Vanesca Bellum, whose English course increased her confidence and encouraged her to consider new career opportunities; Gloria Dei, who completed a Level 3 Information, Advice and Guidance course to strengthen the support she provides in her community; and Kamron Williams, who developed his professional skills through courses delivered through Lifelong Learning’s partnership with St George’s.

Find an opportunity to learn

Wandsworth Lifelong Learning provides courses and support across areas including professional development, skills for employment, apprenticeships, ESOL, English and maths, health and wellbeing and work experience.

The council's wider Lifelong Learning offer caters for more than 8,000 learners each year across more than 650 courses.

Residents interested in developing their skills can:

• Explore Wandsworth Lifelong Learning and find out how to register
• Find an adult learning course in Wandsworth