I grew up in Southwark and have long known of Dean Foster’s commitment to the community. But I really came to see his dedication when the foundation I lead supported Peckham Soup Kitchen.
Known as Fos, Dean is its co-founder and has become a respected grassroots community leader. His work exemplifies the very best of Black British civic leadership: practical, compassionate and deeply rooted in service to others.
Through his leadership, Peckham Soup Kitchen has become a trusted place offering food, dignity, connection and opportunity to hundreds of people every week. It brings residents together while responding to the pressures facing individuals and families across Southwark.
Dean and fellow co-founder Junior Mohammed grew up locally. They understand first-hand the challenges facing young people and how a lack of support can leave them vulnerable to crime and exploitation, with fewer opportunities and poorer long-term outcomes.
Their ambition is to ensure that every young person can thrive, fulfil their potential and pursue their goals, regardless of background or circumstances. That ambition is reflected in the range of opportunities Peckham Soup Kitchen provides.
Alongside food support for vulnerable residents, the organisation offers mentoring, sports and fitness programmes, film and media workshops, cooking sessions, allotment projects, volunteering opportunities and employability support for young people aged five to 24.
These activities give young people opportunities to develop their interests, learn skills and build relationships with people who want to see them succeed. They also create ways to contribute to the community and recognise the value of their own abilities.
Dean has shown how important trusted relationships, relatable role models and early support are to this work. He helps young people develop confidence, resilience and ambition while creating pathways into education and employment.
His local knowledge matters. He understands the community he serves and the importance of being someone young people can relate to. That connection helps turn encouragement into something they can trust and act upon.
Under his guidance, Peckham Soup Kitchen has also become a place for social connection. Bringing people together helps tackle loneliness and strengthens the relationships that communities depend on, particularly during difficult times.
What makes Fos especially deserving of recognition is his ability to combine immediate action with a longer-term vision. He understands that food poverty is connected to wider inequalities affecting opportunity, health and people’s ability to participate in community life.
His response is to create practical support while keeping dignity at the centre of how it is offered. The organisation’s values of compassion, respect, empowerment and advocacy reflect the care he brings to his leadership.
At a time when residents face increasing economic pressure and isolation, Dean has remained committed to serving others. His work supports vulnerable people while helping young people see possibilities for their future.
Having seen that dedication through our foundation’s support, I believe he deserves recognition for the difference he makes to young people and families across Southwark. Fos understands that a stronger community is built through consistent care, trusted relationships and opportunities that people can reach.
Dean Foster puts that belief into practice, helping ensure that those who need support receive it with dignity and that young people have someone willing to invest in their future.