Lewisham College was delighted to sponsor the 'New Business Award' category at this year's Mayor of Lewisham Business Awards. The awards recognise organisations working hard to boost local economic growth and provide opportunities that benefit their local communities and the wider borough.

The annual event received unprecedented public engagement, with close to 9,000 votes and nominations and over 300 people attending the awards ceremony, held at Catford's iconic and newly renovated Broadway Theatre.

The New Business Award sponsored by the College was won by The Vegan Patty Lady. A deserved winner founded by Natasha Orumbie, the food business offers plant-based patties crafted to deliver authentic flavours with high-quality vegan ingredients.

George Khoury, Head of Employability & Skill for Lewisham College, who presented the award on the night, said: "Business start-ups, enterprise and self-employment are an important part of the Lewisham economy, this is why we are delighted to have sponsored the best new business category, which recognises those who have turned an idea into a viable business. Lewisham College recognises we are an anchor institution for our local and business communities, and we want to continue to work with employers to recruit, train and retain the very best that Lewisham has to offer in skills for current and future workforces."

Lewisham College's involvement in the Mayor of Lewisham Business Awards is a testament of our commitment to fostering relationships with local businesses to support local growth and enrich our learners' college experience and ensure they are well-equipped to pursue their chosen paths.

To learn more about Lewisham College's services to local employers and partnership opportunities, please visit lewisham.ac.uk/employers.