Hot on the heels from her success at the recent Dance Westminster competition, City of Westminster College’s student Marieleynne (Marilyn) Laban wowed the crowd with a stunning solo show at the ActiveWestminster Awards last month.

Marieleynne, who is studying Skills for Work at City of Westminster College’s Maida Vale Campus, was invited to perform during the awards ceremony at Porchester Hall on Friday, November 17.

It was a welcome return to the venue for Marieleynne after winning first prize, along with professional dancer Max, just a weeks before in the Dance Westminster event — and once again she earned plenty of plaudits and praise from onlookers.

Gemma McCarthy, Curriculum Manager Supported Learning at CWC, said: “As a department, we were incredibly proud of Marieleynne’s outstanding achievement by winning the Dance Westminster competition.

“We were equally delighted when Step Change Studios extended an invitation to perform at this year’s ActiveWestminster Awards ceremony.

“The level of commitment that Marieleynne has displayed throughout is inspirational to all learners.

“It has been a pleasure watching her dance — and an even greater pleasure watching the remarkable growth in her confidence to dance solo in front of such a large audience is wonderful.”

Dr Rashmi Becker MBE, Founder, Step Change Studios, said: “Marieleynne did brilliantly. She was nervous but calm beforehand and as soon as her name was announced she walked out with a smile, gave the audience a wave and then performed with such confidence.

“She chose her own lighting, red to match her top. She didn't show any nerves on stage and owned it. She got a fantastic response from the audience — well deserved.”

The ActiveWestminster Awards is an annual event — now in its 14th year — that recognises the communities and individuals in the City of Westminster. It is a mainstay of the ActiveWestminster calendar and brings the community together to celebrate the people and organisations who help to create an active city.