The KFA runs an annual award in recognition of all the hard work and dedication it receives from all the volunteers working on behalf of the organisation. We understand that many people devote much time and energy to their role and are not seeking recognition. The KFA on the other hand, would not survive if it were not for their contribution and so would like so shows its appreciation through these annual awards. Nominations were received for all categories. The nominees were: Pamela Loe, Maureen Maude, Grace Lewis, Lisa Bigley, Sue Price, Rebecca Slaven, Ivy Purdham, Debbie Risorto, Valerie May, Michelle Staves and Ann Alston. Being nominated is a great achievement so thank you to those who made the nominations.
Member Winner – Grace Lewis
Grace has been a KFA member for over 40 years and supportive to her teachers and class members. She has taken part in class demonstrations and the National Festival. Her excellent office skills are put to good use in arranging charity events, assisting her teacher and she encourages new members to join the KFA
Grace Lewis responded:
‘My reaction to the news was one of disbelief and surprise and pleasure all in one! I just love going to my keep fit class and enjoy helping everyone out whenever possible. Keep Fit has enriched my life in many ways and also given me many very good friends.’
Teacher Winner – Ivy Purdham
Ivy has been a teacher for 44 years and also trained to be a trainer. She has 5 classes a week with an age range over several decades. She organises social events for her class members ensuring all feel included. She promotes the KFA at every opportunity.
Ivy Purdham responded:
‘Thank you for my letter informing me of winning the Volunteer of the year teacher award!
What an unexpected surprise! I am so thrilled and feel very honoured! It actually made me very emotional!
I joined the KFA in 1969 and became a KFA teacher in 1981. I fell in love with teaching Laban dance and in particular working in the community!
I hope to continue for many more years to come! I would have loved to receive the award in person at the National AGM but I will be on holiday in Portugal.
Thank you once again, Janet and the KFA board. It means the world to me!’
Teachers Winner – Joint Award Rebecca Slaven and Sue Price
Sue and Rebecca were nominated for their energy, vision and community spirit. They organised Let’s Dance down the Valley as part of the Let’s Dance Day in March of this year. By working together, they have involved many communities and raised money for local charities. All this, as well as running their normal classes. Sue and Rebecca have been awarded the teacher category. Congratulations to both.
Sue responded:
“I was absolutely shocked and stunned but also delighted to receive the letter informing me I had been chosen as Volunteer of the year 2025 Teacher section winner.
I had to read it numerous times and also show my neighbour who is one of my class members before realising it was for me! “
Rebecca responded:
“It’s an incredible honour to be named Volunteer of the Year. I’m so proud to be part of a community that believes in the power of movement, creativity, and connection to improve wellbeing. Every class is a reminder that small acts of encouragement can make a big difference in people’s lives.”
Committee Winner – Valerie May
Valerie has served as secretary for Hertfordshire and Eastern Counties for over 20 years. She pulls together all aspects of regional activity, arranges AGMs and working groups. She is minuting secretary to the KFA board, service across all these three tiers of the KFA structure.
Valerie May responded:
“I am very surprised and also extremely honoured to receive this award. The Keep Fit Association has been a big part of my life, until recently as a teacher, and of course for many years on both the Hertfordshire Area Committee and Eastern Counties Regional Partnership. It has always been a real pleasure for me to assist the Association in any way I can, so thank you very much for this honour.”
Valerie May, Committee member winner.
