The exclusive annual awards event returned to St. James' Park on Tuesday night, recognising the remarkable journeys of young people, families and older generations achieving their goals to realise their potential with support from the Foundation.
Among the 400 guests at the black-tie fundraising gala were Newcastle United CEO David Hopkinson alongside the Magpies' first team, Newcastle United Women's team and former players, Foundation supporters and participants.
Hosted by broadcaster and Newcastle United Foundation Patron Pete Graves alongside Sky Sports News' Bela Shah, the celebration highlighted inspirational community members of all ages and backgrounds who are among thousands of people who benefit from Foundation programmes.
The prize-giving portion of the night saw award winners and their families meet with first team players, including Harvey Barnes, Jamaal Lascelles, Nick Pope and Kieran Trippier, as well as Newcastle United Women's team players, Elysia Boddy, Lois Joel, Emily Murphy and Shania Hayles.
Head coach Eddie Howe was also inducted into the Newcastle United Hall of Fame - celebrating his extraordinary contribution to the club since arriving on Tyneside in 2021. He was inducted alongside two true United greats - Glenn Roeder and John Anderson, taking their place among St. James' Park legends.
Steve Beharall, Newcastle United Foundation Chief Executive Officer, said: "We are proud to reflect on our progress as an organisation and celebrate the incredible achievements of the communities we serve across the North East.
"Our Celebration Dinner is the Foundation's largest annual fundraising event and a chance to showcase the life-changing impact made possible by the generosity of our supporters, funders and donors.
"Every year, we deliver over one million hours of activity to create opportunities and raise aspirations for children, young people, families and older generations.
"The success of our award winners demonstrates what can be achieved - from improving physical and mental wellbeing to securing employment or enjoying inclusive sport with friends.
"With the continued support of Newcastle United Football Club, the Premier League, and our valued partners and donors, we look forward to growing our reach and impact across the region."
Newcastle United Foundation Celebration Award Winners 2025/26
The first award of the evening was presented to Austen. His Ullrich Congenital Muscular Dystrophy was diagnosed at age three and Austen embraced using a powerchair to give him more opportunities to play and learn.
Austen's parents searched to find inclusive after school activities for him to enjoy, but nothing supported Austen fully. Now age nine, Austen and his family have found a home at NUCASTLE where Austen enjoys accessible STEM activities through his love of gaming.
Aaliyah received the inaugural Inspiration Award, honouring her journey through adversity. Aaliyah's life changed in an instant when a trampoline accident triggered a stroke. The ten-year-old endured a six-hour surgery to remove a portion of her skull, relieving swelling on the brain.
Moving from intensive care to a neuroscience ward, the accident took away Aaliyah's mobility and confidence. She met Newcastle United Foundation staff based in the Great North Children's Hospital who engaged Aaliyah through her love of Newcastle United. Activities on the ward has helped Aaliyah regain her strength, with her cheeky smile growing day by day.
Elyjah earned the Young Leader Award. Elyjah arrives at school with a smile on his face every day. His enthusiasm for learning shines through despite his world being turned upside down.
At home, Elyjah is a young carer for his mother, managing household tasks like cooking, washing and cleaning. Balancing school with commitments at home, Elyjah faced unimaginable hardship by the recent loss of his father. Through his grief, Elyjah continues to be a shining light for his family with support of Foundation sessions in school which he would not miss for the world.
The Collinson Family received the Inclusion Award. Parents Gemma and Johnny ensure their children never go without, but with few family activities near their home in Newcastle's east end, they catch two buses after school each weeknight to reach NUCASTLE.
The Collinsons religiously attend Family Fun Club - a warm space to spend time together and with others. Children Johnny, Jorja and baby Libbi are familiar faces in NUCASTLE and are growing up in a community who call the Foundation a home away from home.
Jake collected the Adult Learner Award. Father-of-one Jake became homeless through divorce last year. Jake's brother's home office became their shelter while anxiety took over and finding work again became a daunting process.
Arriving at Newcastle United Foundation's Careers Hub, Jake stepped out of their comfort zone to socialise again and with support, Jake secured a customer service role. Jake is approaching their one-year work anniversary and now in a rented flat - which gives Jake's son his own bedroom - they can celebrate together as a family.
David picked up the Local Hero Award. David is a proud family man. Growing up in Walker, he idolised his father and together they shared a passion for Newcastle United. David, or 'Dougie', worked lots of jobs but found his passion for helping young people and joined Newcastle United Foundation in 2014. He has inspired countless young adults to build confidence and now leads the Foundation's work in Howdon Community Hub.
Loss has touched David's life in recent years, including the passing of his father. Through overwhelming grief, David remains determined to inspire young people, and his family, every single day.
And to culminate the evening, Ken and Keith collected the Community Champion Award. Brothers Ken and Keith are proud Geordies through and through. Brought closer together by their love of Newcastle United and time spent at Newcastle United Foundation, Ken and Keith have reconnected through walking football.
Sessions allow the brothers to improve their physical and mental wellbeing while dealing with ongoing health issues. The pair work around GP visits and hospital appointments to spend time together at the Foundation. Building on a lifetime of love for the club, Ken and Keith would never be without the Foundation or each other.
Newcastle United Foundation Celebration Dinner is principally sponsored by Newcastle Building Society, with Food Sponsor Bidfood, Drinks Sponsor Molson Coors, Legends Sponsor Robertson, VIP Champagne Reception Sponsor Turner and Townsend and Entertainment Sponsor Sage, with dedicated award sponsors creating an exceptional evening for all.
