Date published: 06 October 2025
Oldham Business Awards winners line up on the stage after the presentations. Images courtesy of Josh Bowker/New Image
A woman who has literally sparked better mental health and wellbeing, youth development and volunteer engagement across Oldham has been acclaimed at this year’s Oldham Business Awards.
Kim Rogers, founder of Spark Oldham CIC, which prides itself in a people-and-community-first approach, actively listening to local voices and tailoring programmes to meet their needs, was given the Special Recognition Award at this year’s gala evening at Queen Elizabeth Hall.
And the night turned out to be third time lucky for Rubena Begum of Jacksons WW/Academy, who was named Young Entrepreneur after twice being shortlisted previously.
Kim and Rubena were among the 12 winners as the awards celebrated business excellence and acumen, and entrepreneurial spirit, across the borough.
Here is a rundown of all the winners:
· Special Recognition Award – Kim Rogers, Spark Oldham CIC
· Business of the Year £5m+ – Widdop & Co
· Business of the Year £1m-£5m – Oldham Rugby League Football Club 1867.
· Business of the Year up to £1m – KG Builders & Construction Ltd.
· Businessperson of the Year – Barry McLoughlin of BS Entwistle Electrical Contractors Ltd.
· Micro Business of the Year – Shinsei Academy.
· Start-Up – Selfcare with LJ.
· Young Entrepreneur – Rubena Begum of Jacksons WW/Academy.
· Young business – SEE Oldham CIC
· Community Engagement – Sports Physio UK
· Supporting Young People – Barlows UK.
· Workforce Health and Wellbeing – Thrive Wellness Chiropractic
Special Recognition Award winner Kim Rogers with her certificate and John Walmsley, Social Impact Executive for The Casey Group, who sponsored the award. The pair are flanked by Justin Moorhouse and Caroline Whitmore
Special Recognition Award (see above)
The award Special Recognition Award is made by the OBA steering group for someone who has gone above and beyond for the borough.
OBA chair David Wadsworth, founder and MD of Lees-based Cornerstone Design and Marketing, said: “It was a privilege to recognise Kim’s contribution to the borough.
“It’s only two years since she founded Spark as a community interest company, but in that time Kim and her team have had a huge impact helping those communities that need it the most.
“We were hugely impressed by the range and ambition of Spark’s initiatives. Well done!”
Kim and her 12-strong team, many of them from the communities they help, have developed a wide range of programmes – from school holiday activity schemes and women’s groups to baby-boogies, young leader initiatives and anti-poverty projects.
A well as collaborating with other organisations, mental health professionals, and volunteers, they have forged strong links with local businesses, organising corporate volunteer days, in-kind donations and sponsorship packages for young people.
Earlier this year, Spark Oldham achieved the Quality in Action award for its excellence in safeguarding and accountability from Action Together, which supports the voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) sector in Oldham, Rochdale, and Tameside.
Speaking after receiving her award, Kim, who’s lived in Oldham for 20 years after moving from the Isle of Man, said: “I feel really privileged and thankful to the team.
“In a role this you don’t do it for the glory, but it is great to be recognised for helping to transform lives and making Oldham a better place.
“I’m really happy Casey’s were able to present us with the award as they’ve really supported us.
“We’re coming up to our second birthday, and we’re determined to get even bigger and better.”
Kim’s accolade made up for Spark losing out to SEE (Oldham) CIC in the OBA young business category earlier in the evening but there is more opportunity for recognition with Kim shortlisted for the Community Contributor award at the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce Excellence Awards this week (October 10).
Hosted by OBA stalwart Caroline Whitmore of ITV Granada Reports and featuring entertainment from radio DJ, comedian and actor Justin Moorhouse, this year’s OBAs were the 17th to recognise business excellence, acumen, and entrepreneurial spirit among Oldham’s business community.
Live music was provided by The Not Quite Big Band during the gala dinner and continued into the night for the post-awards party.
There were also plenty of chances to win some fabulous raffle prizes with all proceeds going to Mahdlo Youth Zone and Dr Kershaw’s Hospice.
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