On Wednesday 16th March, Patchwork Foundation announced Abena Oppong-Asare MP as the 2021 Labour MP of the Year at the prestigious MP of the Year Awards, hosted and presented by Patchwork Patron, Mr Speaker, Rt Hon Sir Lindsay Hoyle MP, in Speaker’s House.
The Patchwork Foundation’s annual MP of the Year Awards celebrate the MPs who have actively worked with underrepresented and disadvantaged communities across the UK over the previous 12 months. The MPs are nominated by the public, with winners being selected by an independent panel of judges.
Abena Oppong-Asare MP was recognised for her work to spread political awareness, and equipping young people with the tools needed to make their voices heard, as well as for raising awareness of how Covid-19 disproportionately impacts certain communities.
Celebrating the news, Abena Oppong-Asare MP said, “I’m delighted to be named Patchwork Foundation’s Labour MP of the Year. Since being elected in 2019, I have been focused on giving voice to those of my constituents who are too often left behind by the political process.
I am proud that I have already held my first campaigning summer school – to give local young people the tools they need to make change in our communities – as well as securing the first Black History Month debate in the Commons Chamber in five years.
I will continue to speak up for all my constituents and to fight to end the injustices which hold them back.”
Of the Awards, Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer MP, Leader of the Opposition, said, ‘Congratulations to all the winners and nominees of the MP of the Year Awards. Your work to empower young people from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds to engage with politics is crucial. Encouraging the next generation to participate in the political system and affect positive change in society is vital for a healthy democracy. Patchwork Foundation is creating a space to make politics more accessible, and I credit you for the exemplary impact you are having.’
Rt Hon Sir Lindsay Hoyle MP, Speaker of the House of Commons, said, “It is fantastic to see the 9th annual MP of the Year Awards return to Speaker’s House, to celebrate the hard work of MPs throughout 2021 – to support, champion, and engage under-represented communities.
These awards are a great way to celebrate and shout about the work so many of our MPs do on behalf of their constituents across the country.”
