International recognition comes in many forms. Beyond state honours and major institutional prizes, awards presented by professional, community and diaspora platforms recognise another important dimension of leadership: the sustained contribution of individuals whose work crosses professional, cultural and geographical boundaries.

Such recognition is often less about one isolated achievement and more about a body of work – advocacy, community development, enterprise leadership, service, and the ability to connect people and opportunities across societies.

That was the spirit surrounding the 5th AfroEuropa Gala & Awards Night, held at The City Pavilion in Romford, London.

Themed “Fostering a United & Flourishing Community for Future Generations,” the fifth-anniversary gathering brought together members of the African and European communities, including community leaders, entrepreneurs, professionals, business executives, civic representatives and other distinguished guests.

The organisers describe AfroEuropa as an annual platform bringing together diplomats, mayors, councillors, entrepreneurs, community elders and community champions to celebrate achievement, encourage networking and recognise positive contributions to communities.

AfroEuropa was established in 2022 by Charming Production Limited, publishers of Charming Magazine, and has developed into a platform for cultural celebration, community engagement, networking and recognition.

A celebration shaped by community support

Reflecting on the success of the fifth edition, Maureen Charming-Layokun, Convener of AfroEuropa, expressed deep appreciation to those who supported the event.

She said:

“My heart is overflowing with gratitude as I reflect on the resounding success of the 5th Edition of AfroEuropa Gala & Awards Night. The event could not have been possible without the support of the many people who showed up, contributed and encouraged the vision. Whether through spiritual, emotional or financial support, kind words, encouragement or simply believing in the cause, everyone played a part. From the deepest part of my heart, I remain humble, grateful and thankful, and I sincerely appreciate everyone who helped make this celebration possible.”

The organisers' post-event coverage described the evening as a celebration of humanitarianism, leadership and community achievement, with award presentations and the participation of distinguished civic and community figures.

Among those captured at the event were the Mayor of Barking & Dagenham, Councillor Manzoor Hussain; the Mayor of Islington, Councillor Rosaline Ogunro; and two-time Mayor of Enfield, Dr Kate Anolue.

One of the recipients was Mentoring Cmdt Ambassador Alistair Soyode, who received the AfroEuropa 2026 Star Leadership Award.

The award plaque states:

“In recognition of your remarkable contributions to Media Leadership, Global Engagement, Community Development and African Advocacy.”

The recognition reflects a career and continuing engagement spanning media, diaspora relations, community initiatives and African advocacy.

As founder and Chairman of BEN Television, Europe's first black and ethnic media platform, has been involved in using media as a bridge between Britain, Africa and the wider African diaspora.

His wider engagements have also extended beyond broadcasting and communications, including mentoring, community development and initiatives aimed at connecting people, institutions and opportunities across borders.

One recent example has been his intervention in helping facilitate the development of the Nigerian Netball Association and Nigeria's participation at the African Netball Championships in Kenya - an initiative connecting diaspora involvement with national sporting participation.

The AfroEuropa recognition therefore comes against a background of activity extending across several areas rather than a single professional discipline.

Responding to the honour, Mentoring Cmdt Ambassador Alistair said:

“I receive this award with great humility and gratitude. My greatest thanks are to God, who gives us life, strength and the opportunity to serve.

“I sincerely thank the AfroEuropa organisers, my family, colleagues, friends and everyone whose support has enabled me to continue contributing over the years.

“I accept this recognition as encouragement to continue doing whatever good we can while we are alive and able. If our experience and relationships can help create opportunities or strengthen communities, then it is worthwhile”

“The 2026 event marked the fifth edition of the AfroEuropa Gala & Awards Night, which has developed since its launch into a platform combining cultural celebration, networking and recognition of community contribution across African and European communities.

“The 2026 edition also saw other individuals recognised for contributions in areas including humanitarian service, education and leadership.

“For the recipient of the Star Leadership Award, however, the recognition represents more than a moment on an awards stage.

“It is another acknowledgement of the continuing belief that leadership can be expressed through service, connection, advocacy and the willingness to create opportunities for others - across borders and across generations.

“And perhaps, ultimately, that is the most meaningful measure of any recognition: not simply the title engraved on a plaque, but what the recipient chooses to do with the opportunity to keep serving.”