The Awards were set up by the Letisha and Charlene Education Awards Committee.  The partnership brings together a range of disciplines from all sectors and all have played an active role.

The presence of both families on the Steering Group provides inspiration and leadership. Marcia Shakespeare and Beverley Thomas, the mothers of Letisha and Charlene, have been a driving force in the establishment and development of the award scheme.  

The Birmingham Mail has been a vital supporter of the scheme since its inception. Their Head of News is a popular Chair for the Group and brings important private sector experience and vital publicity and marketing expertise to promote the scheme.   

Aston Pride New Deal for Communities has contributed both staffing and financial resources. Their Education Theme Manager sits on the Committee and co-ordinates fundraising activities.

Aston Manor School, where both girls attended, are key supporters and a source of advice on educational matters. Their pupils are a key attraction at many of our events, entertaining audiences with their choir and steel band.

Birmingham Community Foundation administers the Award Scheme on behalf of the Committee. They manage the distribution of funds to awardees as well as the Committee’s finance and administrative systems.