Back in July 2016 we were commissioned by Social Enterprise UK (SEUK) and Fuse Events to make the awards for this years Social Enterprise UK 2016 Awards.
In making the awards it has involved a team of members, (adults referred through mental health services), who have taken the lead in many aspects of how the awards developed.
Members designed a circular piece which was in ‘the style’ of the SEUK logo. One of these designs was chosen to be on the final awards, and that was the design from Mike.:
Mike was referred to Designs in Mind with a diagnosis of severe anxiety and chronic depression. Here Mike talks about the impact of his latest project…
We were asked to take inspiration from the SE:UK logo and create a circular design that could be used on glass.
We all did a design and then we were going to choose the one that we would put forward to SE:UK for selection. I didn’t think anyone had even noticed mine, they didn’t seem to be talking about it, and there were so many to choose from.
And then, it was mine. My design has been chosen to go on the SE:UK awards this year. I couldn’t believe it. And then they told me, the event was in London and that the awards would be handed out to 13 companies. I can’t even imagine that- something I have made will be in London and given as a prize at such an event. It is unbelievable. I feel great.
It gives me such a sense of satisfaction coming here. Growing up, no-body really noticed me, I was written off. Nothing I did was of any use. Now I come here and I get satisfaction of making things that people want. If it isn’t good enough people work with me to get it right and if it’s good, someone buys it.
If I didn’t come here I would be on my own. I have friends here- people want to talk to me. This is so important in my life. I feel better and more confident because I come here.
The stand is made from the staves of a red wine barrel (French oak) and has a beautiful surface when sanded and waxed. The design and making of this was led by 2 other members Mike E and M.
J took Mike’s hand paper cut design and using fritz transferred the design to the circular glass, which was then fired in the kiln.
The letters are engraved on old pieces of veneer, which was achieved through lots of trial and error, as the wording and winners arrived at the studio. Nicki led on getting this right.
And last night we got to go to the awards, see them presented on stage and meet many of the winners. It was incredible, moving and inspiring and the feedback was that the awards were a winner.
UK Social Enterprise of the Year: Dulas
One to Watch Award: Change Please CIC
Prove It: Social Impact Award: Street League
“Buy Social” Market Builder Award: Salford City Council
Social Investment Deal of the Year: Bristol & Bath Regional Capital
Health & Social Care Award: Wellbeing Enterprises
Consumer Facing Award: From Babies with Love
Education, Training & Jobs Social Enterprise if the Year: Cycle Training Wales
Environmental Social Enterprise of the Year: Big Lemon CIC
Inspiring Youth Enterprise Award: Real Ideas Organisation
Women in Social Enterprise Award: Maria Morgan
International Impact Award: Alive & Kicking
It has been a wonderful project to work on and we hope all the winners enjoy having their awards on show.
To read more about the event see this post from Pioneers Post.