New world record holder amongst winners recognised at celebration of Sunderland's African community
The city’s African community has celebrated people’s academic success and outstanding contributions to the Sunderland community including a new world record holder.
Abidemi Praise, a student at the University of Sunderland, was officially recognised by Guinness World Records for the longest drawing portrait. In July 2024, Abidemi spent 90 hours drawing portraits in Sunderland — a feat now validated after 18 months of verification.
Other award winners included African Business of the Year, Lara’s Kitchen, Moms in Sunderland who were recognised as African Community Group of the Year, and African Charity of the Year which went to the Abiolad Foundation.
The awards were organised by Fedash Consultancy Limited - an education support group - in partnership with the University of Sunderland.
One of the highlights of the evening was the announcement of the prestigious Fedash Legendary Award, which was bestowed upon Professor Rotimi Jaiyesimi.
Professor Jaiyesimi is the Group Associate Medical Director for Patient Safety at Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust and a renowned Obstetrician and Gynaecologist. He has also served as a visiting professor at the University of Sunderland.
Fedash Consultancy Limited also presented an award to their own director Damiola Hannah Oyeniyi for her “outstanding leadership”.
The event, which was attended by the Mayor of Sunderland, Councillor Ehthesham Haque, was also a celebration of African culture in the city, including dances and songs from an array of countries across the continent.