The CEO of Mitzvah Day, a programme that mobilises volunteers for charitable causes, has been recognised with a prestigious award for his contributions to interfaith cooperation and strengthening Mitzvah Day’s impact within the borough.

Stuart Diamond, 44, won the Outstanding Individual Award at the inaugural Camden Faith & Belief Awards, which celebrates the vital work undertaken by local faith-based and community organisations.

Under Diamond’s leadership, Mitzvah Day has fostered collaboration between faith communities, encouraging volunteers to support local charitable projects. He actively participates in local interfaith initiatives, where religious leaders gather to build trust and foster understanding and cooperation.

This focus on interfaith services has seen a significant increase in volunteer participation both within Camden and across the UK.

In his acceptance speech at Camden Town Hall, Diamond emphasised the importance of interfaith collaboration. He said: “While interfaith work can be challenging, my passion for it sterns from its necessity. It’s tempting to remain within familiar circles, but building bridges and uniting through interfaith efforts is crucial in today’s world. Witnessing people from diverse backgrounds work together for Mitzvah Day charities inspires me and reinforces the potential for global unity.”

Nominations for the awards were public, with a committee deciding upon the winners.

Camden Faith and Belief Awards (Credit: Justin Thomas)

The ceremony, organised by Camden’s Interfaith Network and The Faith & Belief Forum, also celebrated positive initiatives and projects by other Jewish communal organisations.

Edgware and Hendon Reform Synagogue was part of the Faiths Forum for London winning team for their recent interfaith Iftar event, while JW3 Foodbank was recognised for their work alleviating poverty.

Co-chair of the Camden Interfaith Network, Councillor Nadia Shah, said the awards offer an opportunity “to shine a light on the organisations, projects and individuals who work tirelessly to support our local community and tackle a range of social issues.”

Sophie Mitchell, Programme Coordinator at the Faith & Belief Forum, added: “We know that people who are inspired by their faiths and beliefs contribute so much to a local community, and this was our way to publicly acknowledge and thank these groups and individuals.”

Diamond has served as Mitzvah Day CEO since 2022. He resides in Hove with his family and is a member of the Brighton & Hove Hebrew Congregation.