BWY Celebrates Exceptional Volunteers at 2025 Heart of Yoga Awards

The British Wheel of Yoga (BWY) celebrated the remarkable contributions of its volunteer network at the 2025 Heart of Yoga Awards, announced following the organisation’s Annual General Meeting on Thursday 8 May.

The awards highlight the exceptional dedication of BWY’s volunteers who give up their time and energy to help make yoga more accessible to everyone. From organising local events to creating new initiatives that welcome people into yoga, BWY’s volunteers are at the heart of its mission to build an inclusive yoga community across Britain.

“Our volunteers are the driving force behind BWY,” said Diana O’Reilly, BWY Chair. “Their enthusiasm, innovative thinking and tireless commitment continuously strengthen our organisation. Their passion and dedication help create the vibrant yoga community we’re so proud of today.”

This year’s Heart of Yoga Awards recognised six outstanding volunteers.

The Anthony Grover Award for long-term service was presented jointly to Irene Yates and Jean Nicolas. Irene was honoured for her extraordinary five-decade contribution to yoga, inspiring countless students through her weekly classes in Stafford while organising BWY Midlands events. Jean Nicolas also received this award in recognition of his 23 years as London Regional Treasurer and his work helping to modernise BWY’s financial systems.

Keith Hart was honoured as Ambassador of the Year for eight years of service to the South West region and his invaluable contributions as a trustee championing BWY’s volunteer network.

Emma Nicholson was celebrated as Community Champion for delivering weekly trauma-informed yoga and meditation sessions at a youth offenders institution, making a real difference to young lives. The Rising Star award went to Dave Fowler for his leadership of the Wales Festival and his warmth, energy and generosity to the Welsh yoga community. Sabine Smith received the Event Volunteer of the Year award for her 13 years of dynamic service revitalising the North Kent region for the South East committee.

“The Heart of Yoga Awards spotlight the quiet leadership and selfless service that enable BWY to fulfil its charitable mission,” said Peter Tyldesley, BWY CEO, who co-presented the awards. “These dedicated volunteers exemplify the spirit of service that creates a welcoming yoga community across Britain.”

The Anthony Grover Award

This award pays tribute to Anthony Grover who served BWY for more than 20 years.

Winners: Irene Yates and Jean Nicolas

Irene Yates has been a member of our yoga community since 1968, when she joined the Western Yoga Foundation (now BWY) and trained with founder Wilfred Clark. For over 50 years, Irene has shared her love of yoga, teaching three classes weekly around Stafford. As County Rep for BWY Midlands, she organised weekend events at Harper Adams College and the University of Warwick and also started the Stafford Yoga Group, which held four popular annual seminars for three decades. Remarkably, at 97, Irene continued teaching until March this year.

Jean Nicolas served as London’s Regional Treasurer for over 23 years. He has supported BWY through key milestones, including organising the 40th anniversary celebration at the University of Hertfordshire. Jean helped modernise BWY, championing the introduction of computers with funds raised through London festivals. His dedication, teamwork and steady leadership have left a lasting impact on the organisation we know today.

Rising Star Award

Winner: Dave Fowler

Dave Fowler trained as a BWY teacher during the lockdowns and now offers affordable and free classes at his local library, helping to make yoga accessible to all. As the main festival organiser for BWY Wales, he creates sell-out events that bring the community together. Dave is recognised by the Welsh committee for his sunny smile and generous spirit.

Community Champion Award

Winner: Emma Nicholson

Emma has dedicated nearly two years to teaching yoga and meditation weekly to young men in a youth offenders’ institution. Using her BWY Prison Phoenix Trust training, she creates a trauma-informed, compassionate environment where students feel safe and supported. Despite facing complex challenges, Emma’s calming presence and tailored sessions help them build focus and emotional resilience.

Ambassador of the Year Award

Winner: Keith Hart

Keith Hart has been the heart of the South West region for eight years, balancing roles as Regional Officer and Newsletter Editor. He has serves as a Trustee. Through challenges like Covid and organisational changes, his dedication never wavered. Keith’s expert proofreading, guidance on newsletter redesigns and commitment to promoting volunteering and BWY values make him a vital force in our community.

Event Volunteer of the Year

Winner: Sabine Smith

Sabine has been a dedicated BWY volunteer for over 13 years, energising the North Kent region with her passion and tireless event coordination. From sourcing fresh workshop talent to inspiring others to present, she brings people together and makes things happen – all while facing personal challenges with grace and good humour.