Animate is delighted to announce its sponsorship of the Arts and Culture Hero of the Year Award at this year’s Proud Preston Awards.
As a passionate advocate for creativity across the city, Animate is committed to supporting the individuals and organisations who bring Preston’s cultural scene to life.
The Proud Preston Awards will take place on Thursday 19 March at Barton Grange, where the community will gather to celebrate remarkable achievements that make a lasting impact on the city.
This year’s ceremony will be hosted by the wonderful John Gilmore and Neetal Parekh, who will be presenting the very first Proud Preston Awards.
As proud sponsors of the Arts Hero of the Year Award, we are excited to shine a light on this year’s exceptional finalists. Their dedication and contributions enrich Preston’s cultural identity – and to us, they are already winners.
Arts Hero of the Year Finalists
Abhinandana Kodanda (Abhi)
Abhi is a visionary arts leader whose work in South Asian Arts has enriched Preston’s cultural life, nurtured talent, and strengthened community cohesion across the North West.
Andrew Sumner
Born and based in Preston, Professional theatre practitioner for 25 years starting in a local youth theatre; now owns his own theatre business in Preston, specialising in theatre in education
Harriet Barlow
An inclusive dance studio empowering all ages through movement, creativity, and community, fostering confidence, wellbeing, and lifelong participation in physical activity.
Jason Marx
Jason Marx is a Preston-based DJ, music historian, educator and events organiser who spearheads community initiatives like Preston DJ Social, Preston Creative Social, and Sexy Woke Disco Club.
Jonathan Cassidy (Jonny Cosmo)
A tireless cultural connector, enriching Preston through grassroots arts, inclusive creative spaces and collaborative projects that bring people together, amplify voices and strengthen the city’s cultural life
The Crafty Penguin Club
Children eagerly anticipate each session, often referring to it as their “happy place,” where they build skills and grow in independence, while parents appreciate having a dependable, enriching, high-quality creative environment they may not be able to offer at home.
Tony Rigg
Tony Rigg is recognised for sustained leadership supporting Preston’s arts and culture, enabling artists, venues, and communities to collaborate, participate, and thrive through inclusive, community-led cultural activity.
We can’t wait to celebrate with our finalists and honour the winner on awards night.
