YMCA North Staffordshire CEO Nicky Twemlow Awarded MBE in King’s Birthday Honours

YMCA North Staffordshire is proud to celebrate the incredible achievement of its Chief Executive Officer, Nichola Twemlow, who has been awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in His Majesty The King’s Birthday Honours List.

The prestigious honour recognises Nicky’s exceptional contribution to Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire through her dedication to civic leadership, community development and her role as co-founder of Made in Stoke – a movement that brings together people, businesses and organisations who share a passion for creating positive change across the city.

For many years, Nicky has been a passionate champion for young people and communities, helping to create opportunities, build partnerships and bring people together to make a lasting difference. Through Made in Stoke and her wider work across the city, she has supported countless initiatives that have strengthened communities and improved the lives of local people.

Whilst this national recognition celebrates Nicky’s contribution beyond her role at YMCA North Staffordshire, those who work alongside her see the same commitment, compassion and drive reflected in her leadership of the charity every day.

Peter Dartford, Chair of YMCA North Staffordshire, said:

Everyone at YMCA North Staffordshire is absolutely delighted that Nicky’s commitment and contribution to our city has been recognised through the award of this national honour. Nicky works tirelessly to help improve the lives of young people across Stoke-on-Trent and beyond and continues to dedicate her time and remarkable talents to deliver better outcomes for the communities we serve. This award is richly deserved and reflects the positive difference her efforts make.”

Speaking about receiving the honour, Nicky said:

I am deeply honoured and incredibly grateful to receive this recognition. Whilst my name may appear on the award, it reflects the efforts of many people who have been part of the Made in Stoke journey and the wider networks, organisations and communities that care deeply about our city.

Made in Stoke has always been about bringing people together to create opportunities and positive change for Stoke-on-Trent. I have been fortunate to work alongside extraordinary individuals whose generosity, commitment and belief in our city continue to inspire me.

That same belief in people and potential sits at the heart of YMCA North Staffordshire. Every day I see colleagues, volunteers, partners and young people working together to build stronger communities and brighter futures.

Stoke-on-Trent has always been my home, and it has shaped who I am. To receive this recognition for work that celebrates and supports the city I love is both humbling and deeply special.