Mahdlo CEO awarded Honorary Fellowship from University Campus Oldham

Mahdlo Youth Zone's Chief Executive Officer, Lucy Lees, has been awarded an Honorary Fellowship from University Campus Oldham (UCO) in recognition of her outstanding contribution to the community and her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of young people across the borough.

The award was presented at a ceremony held at Queen Elizabeth Hall, following a town centre procession that brought together local leaders, families and community members to celebrate Oldham’s spirit of collaboration and achievement.

Lucy was joined by her husband, her mum and her eldest child, aged six, for what she described as a “deeply humbling and proud moment.”

With 18 years dedicated to supporting young people in Oldham, Lucy’s journey began as a youth worker, supporting and championing opportunities for young people to discover their potential.

As one of the founding team members behind Mahdlo Youth Zone, Lucy helped shape its vision from the very beginning, creating a safe, inclusive, and aspirational space for thousands of young people.

Since becoming CEO in 2020, she has led Mahdlo with passion, purpose and a deep belief in the power of community.

A qualified coach, Lucy is known not only for empowering Mahdlo’s members but also for coaching her team and supporting other leaders across Oldham.

Her focus is simple yet powerful: ensuring every young person, regardless of background, has the chance to thrive.

Beyond her work at Mahdlo, Lucy plays an active role in shaping Oldham’s future.

She sits on a number of strategic Boards and forums across the town, ensuring that young people’s voices are heard in key decision-making spaces and that collaboration remains at the heart of Oldham’s growth.

Lucy’s leadership has seen Mahdlo Youth Zone continue to grow as a cornerstone of opportunity for Oldham’s youth, offering access to sports, arts, employability programmes, mentoring and emotional wellbeing support.

Speaking after receiving the award, Lucy said: “This recognition isn’t just about me, it’s about Oldham’s young people and the incredible community that stands beside them.

"Every day at Mahdlo, I see potential and creativity.

"This honour belongs to all the young people who inspire us to do better and be better.”

Chair of Mahdlo Youth Zone’s Board, Chris Wareing, added: “Lucy’s dedication to Oldham’s young people is extraordinary.

"Her leadership and compassion have helped make Mahdlo the life-changing organisation it is today.

"This fellowship is a well-deserved tribute to her vision and impact.”

As Mahdlo continues its mission to inspire, empower and support thousands of young people each year, the charity is calling on the Oldham community, residents, businesses, and supporters to get involved.

Whether through volunteering, fundraising, or donating, every act of support helps ensure that Oldham’s young people have the opportunities they deserve.

To find out more or to support Mahdlo Youth Zone, please visit: www.mahdloyz.org

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