Musician and entrepreneur Abi Gilchrist, founder and director of Soul Choirs, claimed the honour for her “outstanding contribution” to music, community, and the arts.
Ms Gilchrist, who attended Blackheath High School from 1988 to 1995, studied classical singing at the Guildhall School of Music before launching her success-driven career.
She has created a thriving business oriented around the joy and health benefits of group singing.
Her choirs, recognised with a Kent Mental Wellbeing Award in 2024, have raised £60,000 for charities, and this year supported the “Baton of Hope” campaign focused on suicide prevention.
Ms Gilchrist said: “I am thrilled with this recognition of my career in music and, in particular, the success of Soul Choirs.
“It means a huge amount to me and to musicians everywhere that the GDST, a globally renowned expert in education, recognises the value of music and the arts.”
Ms Gilchrist believes her journey was profoundly influenced by her time at Blackheath High School.
She added: “Blackheath High shaped who I am and what I’ve achieved, largely thanks to the incredible music department.
“I was lucky to study under two inspirational teachers, Brian and Katherine Tewson, who gave me belief in myself and opened doors I hadn’t imagined.”
Blackheath High School headteacher, Natalie Argile, said: “I am delighted Abi has been named GDST Alumna of the Year.
“She is quite rightfully taking up her place in the ranks of remarkable GDST alumnae who are breaking barriers, driving change and inspiring the next generation.”
In 2010, Ms Gilchrist founded Soul Choirs, which has now grown into one of the largest community choir networks in the South East.
It combines high-quality musical experiences with a focus on social connection, and the positive impact singing has on mental health and wellbeing.
The choir community, which began with four people singing in Greenwich, has expanded to 18 groups across London and the South East, boasting more than 700 participants.
They enjoy performances, events, social get-togethers, and even holidays together.
GDST Chief Executive, Cheryl Giovannoni, said: “Abi is a wonderful example of this, demonstrating how passion and drive can bring a community together and change people’s lives.
“She is a real inspiration to us all.”
Ms Gilchrist is a keen advocate for women and girls in music and entrepreneurship, crediting the all-girls environment of Blackheath High School for encouraging her to “dream big”.
She said: “Running Soul Choirs has shown me the incredible impact group singing has on mental health.
“The benefits are well-researched, and I’m pleased that choir singing now forms part of the NHS social prescribing agenda.
“I’ve seen people’s lives transformed by the sense of belonging that a choir brings.”
