Touch of Love Outreach (TOL) honoured its exceptional volunteers and community partners at the 2025 TOL Awards, an evening dedicated to recognising those whose dedication continues to strengthen and sustain the charity’s work across Aberdeen.
The awards spotlighted outstanding service and impact from individuals and organisations whose support has helped TOL grow from a small grassroots project into a trusted anchor for families and young people across the city.
The recipients of the 2025 honours were presented with their awards by Rev. Franklin Umekachikelu, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees
Award Highlights:
The Foundation Stone Award - Rev Fr Gabor Czako
When Touch of Love was just starting out with limited resources, Rev Fr Gabor Czako opened the doors of Sacred Heart RC Church and said: “Come and use the church."
That simple act of generosity became the foundation for what is now a vital food bank, running rent-free for six years and supporting over 60,000 people in Torry and surrounding areas.
His early belief in the mission allowed Touch of Love to now offer from food parcels and warm meals to hygiene packs and partnerships with other local groups, his support has enabled real, lasting impact.
This award is a tribute to that first "yes" - a quiet decision that made a monumental difference.
Champion of Volunteering in Aberdeen - Mike Melvin
When Touch of Love first appeared on a list of charities receiving Covid resilience funding, Mike Melvin picked up the phone to learn more. From that moment, he became one of the charity’s strongest supporters.
Mike has consistently championed Touch of Love - writing powerful reference letters, speaking about its work across the sector, and offering encouragement at every step. Through his colleague, the charity was nominated for the King’s Award for Voluntary Service, a recognition that meant a great deal.
This award recognises his unwavering support, generosity of spirit, and belief in the power of community-led work.
Ingrid Taylor - Champion of Community Empowerment Award
When Touch of Love first arrived at Tullos Community Centre, Ingrid Taylor chose guidance over gatekeeping. She offered steady support, shared her knowledge, and helped the team learn how to operate safely and effectively.
Because of Ingrid’s belief and practical help, Touch of Love secured a stable base for its food bank, a free space for mum and baby sessions, and affordable access for its youth groups.
Her support has made it possible to work with over 450 young people each year without the pressure of high venue costs. By consistently signposting funding, partnerships, and opportunities, Ingrid has become a quiet but powerful force for community empowerment in Torry.
Ingrid Taylor receiving Champion of Community Empowerment Award
Distinguished Partnership Award - Rotary Club of Aberdeen (St Fittick)
The Rotary Club has been a reliable partner in providing food, volunteers, and hands-on support. Their practical help has enabled TOL to assist over 4,000 households yearly - and they remain a dependable ally, always willing to step in during moments of need.
Rotary Club of Aberdeen (St Fittick) receiving Distinguished Partnership Award
Community Hero Award - Nnenna Anyaso
A mother who came to TOL during a difficult season in her life, Nnenna has become a deeply committed volunteer. Her journey from service user to trusted community advocate is a powerful reflection of the charity’s mission to support healing, growth, and leadership from within.
Volunteer of the Year - Osaze (Joseph) Eke
Osaze first visited TOL as a New Scot. He quickly became an active volunteer across food bank sessions, youth groups, events, and trips - always present, always contributing, and always thinking one step ahead. His commitment has made him an integral part of the team.
Osaze (Joseph) Eke receiving Volunteer of the Year Award
Rising Star Volunteer - Samuel Okosi
Since joining TOL after university, Samuel has brought his Afro dance skills into youth programmes, helping young people grow in cultural confidence and performance. His creativity and energy have enriched the charity’s youth work and helped build pride among its members.
Employee of the Year - Augustina Ezea
Augustina first joined Touch of Love as a volunteer while studying for her MSc at the University of Dundee. She was one of those people who quietly helped wherever there was a gap - no fuss, just service.
She coordinates key services, drives delivery, and leads digital engagement. Her work behind the scenes has raised TOL’s visibility and enabled smoother operations across projects.
For her hard work, creativity and steady commitment, Augustina is our Employee of the Year. We are so grateful to walk this journey with her.
Special Commendations - Emmanuel Onyeaku, Prince Davidson Onyeanuna & Omozele Olotu
These three volunteers exemplify reliability, generosity, and quiet leadership. Their consistent presence across food bank operations, youth groups, and events has made them pillars within the charity’s daily work.
Rev. Franklin Umekachikelu, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, who presented the awards, said: “I’m delighted that we were able to recognise our volunteers who have been very selfless with their time and talent, and so many fantastic people and organisations around us who are true community caregivers.
While many good deeds across our communities often go unseen, tonight we have chosen to shine a spotlight on some of those who have helped us reach this point. We are immensely proud of everyone.”
Dr. Jane Akadiri, Founder and CEO of Touch of Love, added that events like this provide a valuable opportunity to highlight role models and exemplary volunteers who sustain and strengthen the organisation’s work. This year alone, volunteers contributed 11,919 hours - equivalent to more than 5.5 full-time staff - underscoring the vital role they play in delivering Touch of Love’s impact across the community.
TOL Awards take place each year to recognise and appreciate those whose commitment helps build stronger communities.
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