Rochdale celebrates youth achievement: BACP hosts inaugural DofE award ceremony

Eight participants proudly achieved the Bronze Award, receiving certificates and DofE badges.

The Bangladesh Association & Community Project (BACP) celebrated its first Duke of Edinburgh’s (DofE) award ceremony on Thursday 7 November 2024, as the first Bangladeshi organisation to be granted a DofE licence. Eight participants proudly achieved the Bronze Award, receiving certificates and DofE badges.

BACP chair Muhibur Rahman welcomed attendees to the newly refurbished facilities, expressing delight at the impressive turnout of over 100 people from diverse communities, both young and elderly.

He said: "It was a true pleasure to celebrate our young achievers alongside their proud parents and distinguished community guests. The hard work, dedication, and passion of our youth shine brightly, and tonight, we honoured their accomplishments and growth."

Among the notable attendees were Deputy Lieutenant Mr Asrar Ul-Haq DL; Mr Habibullah OBE, JP; Ms Diane Higgins, senior youth officer at Rochdale Borough Council; Beth Craigen, DofE Award operations officer; and local leaders Mr Azmol Khan and Mr Mokhlisur Rahman.

The event’s success was made possible by the hard work of the team at BACP, especially Saly Begum, DofE manager; Jamshed Miah, youth worker at Rochdale Youth Services; and the dedicated board members.

The BACP Chair and board extend heartfelt thanks to everyone involved, with special appreciation to the DofE Award team and Rochdale Youth Service for their invaluable partnership.

Attendees enjoyed delicious food prepared by volunteers, rounding off a truly memorable celebration for all.