Young designers recognised for reimagining accessible living at Slough awards

Community heroes and innovators have been honoured at an awards ceremony celebrating those tackling real-world issues to improve life in Slough.

Now in its second year, the Changemaker Challenge, hosted by Plus X Innovation, awarded one finalist support and a platform to continue developing their ideas.

Finalists presented their work at the Changemaker Awards on Thursday, December 4, where attendees voted to decide the winner.

The Changemaker Award went to Centred Studio, founded by Yuning Huang, 24, and Nina Zenhausern, 25, which creates dignified, accessible furniture that reflects users’ personal tastes and experiences.

Their first project is a redesigned grab bar, which many Slough residents with mobility challenges rely on for day-to-day stability.

Nina Zenhausern said: “We are absolutely delighted to win the Slough Changemaker Challenge. It’s a real honour and a great opportunity to share our vision with our local community.

“Accessibility is often compliance-driven, given an overly clinical aesthetic, and treated as a checklist, rather than reflecting people’s needs, desires, and sense of belonging.

“At Centred Studio, we believe that if accessibility isn’t also the centrepiece that elevates a space, then it isn’t good enough.”

Seven other changemakers were also recognised, including Bella Reid (Clens Cosmetics) for the Business Growth Award and Girls Into Coding for the Social Impact Award.

Luthfun Nessa (Pebble Sense) took home Maker of the Year, recognised for her work improving patient care in the healthcare sector and Jim Reeves was awarded Leader of the Year for being an exceptional mentor.

Organicco claimed Outstanding Achievement in Business for transforming how the world tackles waste and More Connection Co secured Start-Up of the Year for redefining how people build meaningful online connections.

Gozan Zerlinda Roselin John received the Community Hero Award for over 300 volunteer hours supporting children with autism and ADHD, the elderly, and Wexham Park Hospital.

The evening was supported by organisations across Slough, including Viva Slough, the Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce, Thames Valley Internet of Things, and Slough Borough Council.

Colette Makambila, principal economic development officer at Slough Borough Council said: “The Changemaker Awards 2025 were a special moment for me. It is inspiring to witness so many Slough businesses, entrepreneurs and individuals having such a positive impact.”