Jamie Lewis, CEO Awarded MBE for Service to Communities

The HEY Smile Foundation is proud to share that Chief Executive, Jamie Lewis, has been awarded an MBE in the King’s Honours for his outstanding service to communities across Yorkshire. The recognition reflects not only Jamie’s personal journey and leadership, but also the impact and values at the heart of the Foundation’s work.

Stronger Communities

At the HEY Smile Foundation, there is a clear belief that stronger communities are built through collaboration, compassion and investing in people. For many years, this has shaped the charity’s work across Hull, East Yorkshire and beyond. Through partnerships, funding, leadership and practical support, Smile exists to strengthen communities and help voluntary and community organisations to thrive. Jamie’s recognition sits within a wider movement of people and organisations working together to create positive change.

Since joining the HEY Smile Foundation, Jamie has led the organisation through a period of significant growth and development. Under his leadership, the Foundation has strengthened support for grassroots organisations, championed a more connected and collaborative voluntary sector, and helped to unlock new opportunities for local communities. This has included building strategic partnerships and developing innovative approaches that support communities to respond to changing needs.

Lived Experience

Jamie’s own lived experience, having grown up within the care system, has shaped an approach rooted in understanding, inclusion and opportunity. These values continue to influence the work of the HEY Smile Foundation, ensuring that people and communities remain at the centre of everything it does.

This recognition comes at a time when voluntary organisations continue to face significant pressures. Increasing demand, financial uncertainty and growing complexity mean charities and community groups are being asked to do more than ever before. In response, the HEY Smilendation has remained focused on strengthening the wider voluntary sector through partnership, capacity building and creating the conditions for long-term sustainability.

Community Challenges

Through its work, the Foundation has consistently promoted the importance of organisations working together rather than in isolation, recognising that the challenges communities face cannot be solved by one organisation alone. Collaboration, shared learning and collective action are central to its approach.

Speaking about the recognition, Jamie said:
“This is incredibly humbling and, whilst my name may be attached to it, this recognition truly belongs to many people. It belongs to colleagues, volunteers, partners and communities who work tirelessly every day to make a difference. The HEY Smile Foundation exists because of collective effort, shared ambition and a belief that communities are strongest when people come together. I’m privileged to be part of that journey.”

Chair of Trustees at the HEY Smile Foundation, Trish Dalby, said:
“This recognition is not only a celebration of Jamie’s outstanding contribution, but also a moment of pride for the HEY Smile Foundation and the wider communities, partners and organisations we work alongside.

“This honour reflects far more than one individual achievement. Jamie’s leadership has strengthened the HEY Smile Foundation and expanded our reach and impact, but it also shines a light on the incredible work taking place across our communities every day.

“As the challenges facing communities continue to evolve, the HEY Smile Foundation remains committed to collaboration, innovation and supporting a stronger future for the voluntary sector across the region. We are proud of what the HEY Smile Foundation represents, and proud of the partnerships, staff, volunteers and organisations that continue to help us create positive change together.”