Neil Martin, chief executive of the Jewish Lads’ & Girls Brigade (JLGB), has been appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2025 New Year Honours.
Mr Martin, who was born in Ilford and lives in South Woodford, has been recognised for his ‘national service to young people, interfaith relations, and Holocaust remembrance.’
This latest honour follows the OBE he received in 2016 and marks 20 years since his appointment as chief executive of JLGB.
Under his leadership, the JLGB has become a national model for inclusive, culturally sensitive youth services, supporting tens of thousands of young people—many from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Mr Martin said: “I am profoundly humbled by this honour.
“More than an individual achievement, it reflects the dedication of the young people, volunteers, survivors, colleagues and partners who make this vital work possible, and whom I am so privileged to work alongside.
“JLGB shaped who I am, and every day I remain inspired by the next generation.
“In a time when community and resilience matter more than ever, I remain deeply committed to ensuring the lessons of the past, combined with the energy and spirit of today’s young people, help shape a stronger and brighter future for us all.”
In addition to his role at JLGB, Mr Martin chairs Yom HaShoah UK—the Jewish community’s annual Holocaust memorial day—and the Interfaith Youth Trust.
His work with Yom HaShoah has modernised Holocaust remembrance, with this year’s event attracting more than 4,000 attendees in person and more than 500,000 viewers online.
Through the Interfaith Youth Trust, Mr Martin has become a leading figure in faith-based youth work.
Mr Martin’s approach has influenced best practice nationwide in youth provision for faith and minority communities.
He has also helped shape how other organisations support culturally and religiously sensitive programming for young people across the UK.
