Julian Hall, from London is one of only 25 individuals to have been recognised at the Palace of Westminster with the prestigious British Citizen Award (BCA) in recognition of their extraordinary endeavours. The British Citizen Award in partnership with One Stop, is now in its eighth year and recognises exceptional individuals who positively impact their communities, charities, and individual causes.
Julian received the BCA Medal of Honour on 7th July 2022 at the Palace of Westminster, receiving The British Citizen Award for Services to Education. As a legacy of his achievements, Julian is invited to use the post-nominals, BCAe.
Julian is committed to community development by increasing awareness and accessibility to a programme that develops the skills of young people from a myriad of cultural backgrounds. Julian gives young people from poor backgrounds hope, shows them that they are capable and provides a space for them to trust in themselves. Julian created ‘Ultra Education’, which focuses on the needs of the children in the community. It builds their self-esteem and confidence through inspirational and entrepreneurial coaching.
One child who used the ‘Ultra Education’ platform is now a mentor herself, after only three years ago feeling low, unemployed and struggling with her mental health. With Julian’s mentorship she has created a series of events to support young women from her culture with their educational needs. This same girl has since helped her mother to launch her own business and mentored her sister into university.
‘Ultra Education’ is a Community Interest Company freely accessible to the community, funded through National Lottery, Arts Council and local authorities. Young people can access the service through referral partners such as housing associations, youth groups or directly through online channels, website, newsletter or WhatsApp group. The opportunity that Julian provides has a positive impact on the communities he reaches. To date he has worked with several 1000 children across six districts in North West London.
Julian was presented his Medal by CEO of Sponsors Objective HR, Lisa Collins who said ‘Julian’s passion for confidence building and enhancing entrepreneurial skills via coaching and self-belief is an astonishing trait. The impact of Ultra Education on the community and on individuals accessing the programme will undoubtedly provide immeasurable results to all. A blueprint that would benefit all young people across the Country and improve the lives of many. Julian thoroughly deserves this medal and recognition for his dedication.’
The Medal presentation was hosted by TV and Radio presenter Naga Munchetty, and attended by BCA Patron The Rt Hon, Lord Dholakia. The British Citizen Award was established in 2015 to recognise exceptional individuals who work tirelessly and selflessly to make a positive impact on their communities and society. The BCA recognises true community heroes who would otherwise likely be overlooked.
Dubbed ‘The People’s Honours’, each medallist had a day to remember befitting their achievements. At the Palace of Westminster medals were presented by Senior Representatives from official partner One Stop, Places for People, Specsavers, Objective HR, and Big Bus London, who all support this unique programme. Following this, medallists were treated to an Open Top Lap of Honour tour taking in some of the Capital’s iconic landmarks, before going on to a post-event drinks reception and Certificate Presentation at Church House, Westminster.
The British Citizen Award is widely viewed as the nation’s way of recognising extraordinary, everyday people for exceptional endeavor and are truly representative of today’s multicultural Britain.
