An evening of recognition, celebration and appreciation as colleagues, volunteers and trustees came together for the YMCA Fairthorne Group Star Awards 2026.
On Friday 16 October, colleagues, volunteers and trustees gathered at Macdonald Botley Park Hotel for our annual Star Awards, celebrating the individuals and teams whose work makes a difference across YMCA Fairthorne Group.
Representing services from Early Years and Housing to youth engagement, community programmes, Fairthorne Manor and central support, the evening brought together colleagues from across the organisation to celebrate eight award winners, recognise our finalists and nominees, and mark some particularly special achievements.
Celebrating Our 2026 Star Award Winners
This year’s eight awards recognised a wide range of achievements, reflecting the different ways colleagues and volunteers contribute to YMCA Fairthorne Group.
Change Agent – Samantha Elliott, Andover Nursery
As Nursery Manager at Andover Nursery, Samantha was recognised for driving positive improvements and supporting colleagues through change, while keeping children and families at the centre of her work. Her ability to guide the team through challenges and maintain a focus on quality has made a valuable contribution to the setting’s continued development.
Community Focused – Carly Callaway, Youth Engagement
Carly, Youth Engagement Coordinator, received the Community Focused Award for her work reconnecting YMCA Newtown with its local community. Through strengthening relationships and rebuilding opportunities for young people, she has helped create greater opportunities for participation and connection.
Leadership – Nikki Fulford, Eastleigh Nursery
Nikki was recognised for her compassionate leadership and commitment to creating a supportive working environment at Eastleigh Nursery. Her approach places importance on helping colleagues feel valued, developing their confidence and empowering them to contribute to the setting’s success.
Outstanding Volunteer – Ryan Bacon, YMCA Eastleigh
Ryan received the Outstanding Volunteer Award for the enthusiasm, reliability and generosity he brings to YMCA Eastleigh. His willingness to give his time and support others has made him a valued part of the service.
Outstanding Team – YMCA Finance Team
The Finance Team was celebrated for the teamwork, professionalism and dedication that underpin its support to colleagues and services across the organisation. Working largely behind the scenes, the team plays an essential role in supporting the day-to-day operation of our YMCA.
Rising Star – Dan Gailer, IT
Dan, our IT Manager, was recognised for his initiative, problem-solving and positive contribution to colleagues across YMCA Fairthorne Group. His practical approach to resolving challenges and finding improvements has earned him the appreciation of the teams he supports.
Unsung Hero – John Rider, Fairthorne Manor
As Maintenance Carpenter at Fairthorne Manor, John was recognised for the skill, dedication and practical expertise he brings to maintaining our buildings and facilities. His work helps keep the spaces used by colleagues, children and visitors safe, functional and welcoming.
YMCA Way – Jess Masterman, Eastleigh Nursery
Jess, Administrator at Eastleigh Nursery, received the YMCA Way Award for the kindness, initiative and care she brings to supporting colleagues and families. Her approach to everyday interactions reflects the values that shape how we work and support one another.
While eight winners were announced, the Star Awards began long before the ceremony, with colleagues taking the time to nominate people whose contributions deserved recognition.
Those nominations gave us an opportunity to hear about achievements and experiences from across our services, including many that might otherwise go unnoticed beyond individual teams.
Our finalists should be particularly proud of the recognition they received. Being nominated by colleagues and selected as a finalist is an achievement in itself, and we hope everyone recognised this year knows how much their contribution is appreciated.
Thank you to everyone who submitted a nomination and helped shine a light on the people making a difference across our YMCA.
Andover Nursery: Continuing a Tradition of Excellence
The evening also included a special celebration of YMCA Andover Nursery’s achievements in Early Years education.
Having received an Outstanding Ofsted judgement in 2023, Andover Nursery has continued to build on its success, achieving the new Strong standard in 2026.
This recognition acknowledges the collective efforts of the entire team and their continued focus on providing high-quality care and education for children and families.
Congratulations to everyone at Andover Nursery on this well-deserved achievement.
Recognising 10 Years of Service
We were also delighted to celebrate three colleagues reaching an important milestone in their YMCA careers.
Laura Anker, Phillipa Spicer and Samantha Elliott were recognised for 10 years of service with YMCA Fairthorne Group.
Over the past decade, each has contributed to our organisation through their experience, knowledge and ongoing commitment. We thank them for their dedication and congratulate them on reaching this significant milestone.
The Star Awards offer a wonderful opportunity to recognise exceptional contributions, but they also reflect the efforts of the wider organisation.
Across our nurseries, housing services, community programmes, outdoor activities and support functions, colleagues and volunteers work together to create opportunities, overcome challenges and provide services that make a meaningful difference.
We are grateful to everyone who helped organise and deliver this year’s event, to the colleagues who took part in the nominations and celebrations, and to those who continue to support one another throughout the year.
Most importantly, thank you to every member of our YMCA team for your continued commitment, hard work and care. The achievements celebrated at the Star Awards are a reflection of the people, partnerships and teamwork that make our organisation what it is.
Congratulations once again to all our 2026 Star Awards winners, finalists and nominees, our long-serving colleagues and the Andover Nursery team.
Here’s to another year of making a difference, together.
