Do you know someone who deserves recognition for shaping the future of heritage or making a difference to a heritage project? Shout about your heritage champions on social media on 11 January for Heritage Treasures Day using the hashtag #HeritageTreasures.

We were established in 1994 and since then we've awarded over £8.8billion to over 51,000 heritage projects across the UK. From the many inspiring people we've worked with, here's a small selection of our heritage champions.

Esther Fox

In 2023, Esther, the head of Screen South’s Accentuate programme, was announced as the National Lottery Awards Heritage Winner for her incredible work with the Curating for Change project.

The ground-breaking project is providing work placements and professional development for D/deaf, disabled and neurodivergent people who want to pursue a career in museums.

Chantelle Lindsay

Getting her start through London Wildlife Trust’s Keeping it Wild project, Chantelle is soaring in a career in wildlife conservation.

Chantelle gained practical conservation experience during a paid traineeship, and then became a Project Officer. She continues to work at London Wildlife Trust as well as racking up achievements in TV presenting!

Hear from Chantelle in her blog discussing breaking down barriers to nature for young Black people.

Edward ‘Ted’ Ernest Etty

Ted is 95 years old and has owned Etty & Tyler motor and cycle repair shop in Newham since the 1950s, witnessing over 70 years of changing trends.

Ted’s knowledge and memories are shaping a project exploring the unique cycling heritage of Forest Gate through a documentary film, archive and cycling heritage trial to preserve his legacy.

Professor Uzo Iwobi CBE

One of the UK’s most inspiring women in heritage, Uzo Iwobi has made an outstanding contribution to heritage.

Among her many achievements, Uzo is the Founder and Chief Executive of Race Council Cymru, an organisation to promote race equality, integration and justice in Wales and has been a Specialist Policy Adviser to Welsh Government. Read Uzo's blog where she shares her experiences and insight.

Danny Renton

Danny was announced as the National Lottery Awards Environment Winner in 2023.

Leading a team and with regular support from up to 60 volunteers, the former journalist is leading the way as Seawilding uses pioneering low-cost habitat restoration methods to bring the coastline back to its best, all the while training and empowering other coastal communities to follow suit.

Niamh Kelly

Reimagine, Remake, Replay was a Kick the Dust project in Northern Ireland that connected young people and heritage through creative media and digital technologies.

Initially starting as a participant with the project, Niamh blossomed, shaping how the project engaged other potential audiences of young people. She went on to become a Project Co-ordinator and Youth Ambassador for the project, and now works as an Engagement Officer at Belfast City Council on their Belfast 2024 celebration programme. Discover how Niamh made a mark on the Kick the Dust project.

Share your heritage treasures

We know there are many more heritage champions out there who deserve recognition. Get involved today by sharing yours on Twitter/X and Instagram, using the hashtag #HeritageTreasures and tagging @HeritageFundUK.