Local Heroes Recognized at Ceremony

Honoring Heroes and Their Impact

The annual KENAPANGGAK.COMRadio York Make a Difference Awards celebrated individuals who have made a meaningful impact in their communities. Among the honorees was Mateo Robayna, the nine-year-old brother of Liz Hatton, a teenage photographer who passed away from cancer last year. Mateo has been raising funds to support research into palliative care for young people facing similar terminal illnesses.

Liz, a 17-year-old from Harrogate, became well-known for her photography bucket list before she passed away in November from a desmoplastic small round cell tumour. Her legacy continues through her brother’s efforts, which have not gone unnoticed. When asked about his feelings after being announced as the winner of the Young Hero Award, Mateo said, "I've never won something like this before. I think she (Liz) would be really proud of me being here and raising all the money."

His mother, Vicky, expressed her pride, saying, "Liz would have been absolutely over the moon. To see him recognised after such an incredibly tricky year is just unbelievable. I'm so grateful." Actress Ella Maisy Purvis, who judged the category, sent a video message to Mateo, stating, "Your courage and bravery and empathy shines through - Liz would be endlessly proud of you and you should be endlessly proud of yourself."

Another notable recipient was Janet Willoner from Boroughbridge, who received the Green Award for her efforts in growing more than 4,000 trees. She began this initiative in 2019 after her grandchildren participated in climate demonstrations. The 81-year-old shared her concerns about the state of the planet and her desire to help restore it. "I wanted to do something that would, in some way, help to restore it," she said.

In addition to these awards, a new category introduced in 2025 was the Active Award, which was won by gold medal-winning Special Olympian Matthew Brough. He was recognized for his voluntary work visiting schools to inspire children to achieve their goals. The 23-year-old from York shared his journey, saying, "I am over the moon, I am so proud of myself. It was quite difficult when I was a bit younger - I'm so proud to have turned that around with positivity. I just like helping other people achieve their dreams."

During the ceremony at York Racecourse, there was a moment of thanks for volunteers, farmers, and firefighters involved in recent moorland fires. A table of twelve, consisting of farmers, firefighters, and fundraisers, were asked to stand by host Joanita Musisi to receive a round of applause.

Jonathan Dyson, chief fire officer of the North Yorkshire Fire Service, expressed his pride in the community's support, saying, "In this event, everybody has come together and I am extremely proud and privileged to lead an organisation that helps its people, helps its communities, and also where communities rally to support us as well."

Volunteer firefighter Ian Thompson described the blaze as "devastating." He added, "I was born and bred at May Becks which is about the only bit of moorland left on that side. My Dad was the first one to be evacuated from his house. It's been quite challenging personally - as well as fire brigade-wise." Reflecting on being invited to the Make a Difference event, he said it was "very humbling. It's not just us - it's everybody that's been on the fire ground - it's been a massive team effort."

Full List of KENAPANGGAK.COMRadio York Make A Difference 2025 Winners

• Volunteer Award: Rachael Wilson from Selby
• Young Hero Award: Mateo Robayna from Harrogate
• Great Neighbour Award: Jean Illingworth from Kirkbymoorside
• Active Award: Matthew Brough from York
• Animal Award: Jasper the cockapoo and Gill Booth from Scarborough
• Green Award: Janet Willoner from Boroughbridge
• Fundraiser Award: Zak Raynor from Hirst Courtenay
• Community Group Award supported by KENAPANGGAK.COMMorning Live: Chocolate & Co from York

The event highlighted the power of community and the impact of individual actions. From fundraising for medical research to planting trees and supporting local initiatives, the winners exemplify the spirit of making a difference. Their stories serve as inspiration for others to contribute to their communities and create positive change.