BY Bilesanmi Abayomi
Mentoring Cmdt Ambassador Alistair Soyode has received the AfroEuropa 2026 Star Leadership Award in recognition of his contributions to media leadership, global engagement, community development and African advocacy.
Soyode received the honour at the fifth AfroEuropa Gala & Awards Night, held at The City Pavilion in Romford, London, under the theme, “Fostering a United & Flourishing Community for Future Generations.”
The annual event brings together members of African and European communities, including community leaders, entrepreneurs, professionals, business executives, civic representatives and other distinguished guests, to celebrate achievement, encourage networking and recognise contributions to community development.
Established in 2022 by Charming Production Limited, publishers of Charming Magazine, AfroEuropa has grown into a platform for cultural celebration, community engagement, networking and recognition.
Among those in attendance at the 2026 edition 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.
Recognising a cross-border record of service
The award plaque presented to Soyode states: “In recognition of your remarkable contributions to Media Leadership, Global Engagement, Community Development and African Advocacy.”
The recognition reflects Soyode’s involvement across media, diaspora engagement, mentoring, community initiatives and efforts to connect people and opportunities between Britain, Africa and the wider African diaspora.
Soyode is the founder and Chairman of BEN Television, a Black and ethnic media platform in Europe. Through his media and community engagements, he has supported initiatives focused on African representation, diaspora relations and community development.
His recent engagements have also extended into sport and youth development. He played a role in efforts that helped facilitate the development of the Nigerian Netball Association and Nigeria’s participation at the African Netball Championships in Kenya, linking diaspora support with national sporting participation.
The AfroEuropa award therefore recognises a body of work that spans several areas of professional and community engagement.
Soyode: Award is encouragement to serve
Reacting to the recognition, Soyode expressed gratitude to the organisers, his family, colleagues and others who have supported his work.
“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,” he said.
“I sincerely thank the AfroEuropa organisers, my family, colleagues, friends and everyone whose support has enabled me to continue contributing over the years.”
Soyode said he viewed the recognition as an encouragement to continue contributing to society.
“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,” he added.
AfroEuropa celebrates community contribution
Reflecting on the success of the fifth edition, Maureen Charming-Layokun, Convener of AfroEuropa, thanked individuals and organisations whose support contributed to the event.
“My heart is overflowing with gratitude as I reflect on the resounding success of the 5th Edition of AfroEuropa Gala & Awards Night,” she said.
She acknowledged the spiritual, emotional and financial support received from participants and supporters, adding that their encouragement had contributed to sustaining the platform.
The 2026 edition also recognised other individuals for contributions in areas including humanitarian service, education and leadership.
For Soyode, the Star Leadership Award adds another recognition to a career shaped by media, advocacy, mentoring and community engagement.
Beyond the plaque, the honour highlights a broader idea of leadership: the ability to use professional experience, relationships and platforms to connect people, create opportunities and contribute to communities across borders.