Cllr Jas Athwal and Cllr Tanweer Khan are among 49 councillors across the UK who have been shortlisted for the 2023 LGIU (Local Government Information Unit) and CCLA Cllr Awards.
Now in its 14th year, the awards showcase the vital contributions of councillors.
Leader of Redbridge Council, Cllr Athwal, has been shortlisted for the Leader of the Year award while Mayfield representative Cllr Khan will compete for Community Champion of the Year.
The Cllr Awards judging panels are made up of senior councillors and leading stakeholders from across the sector.
Cllr Khan, who was only elected in May 2022, said: “I am deeply touched, genuinely humbled, and incredibly honoured that my constituents have recognised the work I put in to make our community a better, happier and safer place to live.”
He said he received “at least 40” nominations from constituents, community groups, pensioners and local charities including Sue’s House Ilford Cancer & Holistic Help Centre.
Earlier this year, the Local Democracy Reporting Service reported that Cllr Khan donated £1,000 of his councillor allowance to the charity.
He claimed nominations were from residents who “had some issue with the council that they were not getting addressed, and upon contacting me I dealt with their concerns”, that he runs regular surgeries and keeps people updated on various issues in the area such as road closures or public events.
He added: “It would mean the world for me to win. My whole outlook on life is that you should always help people if you are in a position to do so.
“I came into politics for exactly that reason, and if I won it would be one of the proudest moments in my life.”
He said if he didn’t win he would “still be happy and grateful” to make it to the shortlist.
“If my council work makes at least one person better off, in some way, shape or form, and nobody is worse off – then I am already winning,” he added.
Cllr Athwal was contacted for comment.
Jonathan Carr-West, chief executive of LGIU, said: “In the face of unprecedented domestic and global challenges over the last year, councillors nationwide have once again exhibited unwavering dedication to serving their constituents.
“Congratulations to all the councillors nominated and shortlisted and I look forward to announcing the winners in November.”
The winners in England and Wales will be announced at the Guildhall in London at 7pm on November 16.
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