Sometimes, the most meaningful achievements happen long after the classroom doors close. At the Salford Adult Learner Awards 2026, held at Buile Hill Park Hall and organised by the Salford Learning City Partnership, we had the pleasure of celebrating two members of the Connect Talent CIO community: Layla Abdella and Sybil Rose Onyemem.
Sometimes, the most meaningful achievements happen long after the classroom doors close.
At the Salford Adult Learner Awards 2026, held at Buile Hill Park Hall and organised by the Salford Learning City Partnership, we had the immense pleasure of celebrating two inspirational members of the Connect Talent CIO community: Layla Abdella and Sybil Rose Onyemem.
Layla was nominated for The Mike Thorpe Transformation Award, while Sybil was nominated for The Timeless Learner Award (55+). Both received official certificates of Recognition of Achievement in front of an enthusiastic audience celebrating adult learners from all walks of life across Salford.
Although neither took home the category trophy on the night, their nominations and certificates were moments of genuine community pride for everyone at Connect Talent. But their stories go far beyond the awards ceremony.
Two Learners, Two Inspiring Journeys
For Connect Talent CIO, having two of our learners officially nominated and recognised with certificates on this stage was a powerful testament to what happens when accessible community education meets sheer personal dedication.
Layla Abdella: The Mike Thorpe Transformation Award
When Layla first connected with Connect Talent CIO, she faced real tech barriers and struggled with low digital confidence. By committing to our weekly hands-on Essential Digital Skills training cohorts, she transformed hesitation into digital autonomy, gained the confidence to inspire peers on camera in a learner testimonial video, and has now boldly stepped into Higher Education at University.
The Mike Thorpe Transformation Award
Layla’s Learner Pathway:
Started with low digital confidence and faced practical tech barriers with everyday digital tasks.
Enrolled in the Essential Digital Skills programme at Connect Talent, attending hands-on weekly workshops.
Gained complete digital independence and shared her story on camera through an inspiring learner testimonial.
Successfully enrolled in University (Higher Education), boldly taking the next big step towards her ambitions.
Her journey reminds us all that learning is about far more than just acquiring technical certificates. It is fundamentally about building self-belief, discovering new possibilities, and having the courage to pursue them even when the road ahead feels daunting.
Sybil Rose Onyemem: The Timeless Learner Award (55+)
Harnessing Generative AI, she wrote and published six inspiring children's books on Amazon, including Liam and the Quiet Superpower. Today, in addition to being a published author, Sybil generously gives back to the Salford community every single week as a volunteer Digital Champion at Pendleton Library, patiently guiding fellow seniors and older adults through basic computer literacy and internet navigation.
The Timeless Learner Award (55+)
Sybil’s Learner Pathway:
Retired nurse (age 78) holding an MA in Gerontology, driven by a lifelong passion for caring and active learning.
Completed Digital Skills & Generative AI literacy training at Connect Talent, mastering modern creative tech.
Used Generative AI to write and publish 6 children's books on Amazon, including Liam and the Quiet Superpower.
Serves as a weekly volunteer Digital Champion at Pendleton Library, patiently mentoring fellow older adults in tech.
Nominated for the prestigious Timeless Learner Award, Sybil exemplifies the true spirit of continuous growth. We are incredibly proud of her accomplishments and look forward to reading many more chapters of her work.
Explore Sybil’s Published Books on Amazon
Liam and the Quiet Superpower
By Sybil Rose Onyemem
An inspiring story empowering young minds to discover their inner strengths, build confidence, and embrace what makes them unique.
Awesomeness
By Sybil Rose Onyemem
A vibrant celebration of self-worth, positivity, and discovering the boundless potential inside every young reader.
Paul is Smart
By Sybil Rose Onyemem
An uplifting story highlighting intellect, curiosity, and encouraging children to take pride in learning and thinking differently.
Lily is Blessed
By Sybil Rose Onyemem
A heartwarming narrative celebrating gratitude, family love, and the joy of everyday blessings in a child's world.
Omar is Handsome
By Sybil Rose Onyemem
An affirming, character-building tale reinforcing self-esteem, kindness, and positive identity for young boys.
Connie is Loved
By Sybil Rose Onyemem
A comforting and empowering picture book reminding children of the unconditional love and support surrounding them.
What These Stories Say About Connect Talent CIO
Our wraparound support includes:
- Free Digital Equipment & Connectivity: Refurbished laptops and tablets provided to eligible learners, alongside free mobile data sim cards through our partnership with Good Things Foundation's National Databank.
- Free Digital Skills & AI Training: Weekly hands-on workshops covering essential digital skills, online safety, administrative applications, and Generative AI literacy.
- Career & Personal Development: Tailored one-to-one CV assistance, job search guidance, interview coaching, and mentorship for individuals exploring employment, self-employment, or university pathways.
These services are about far more than learning how to operate a computer or navigate the web. They are about helping people build independence, self-worth, and tangible access to opportunities.
Layla’s university journey and Sybil’s success as a published author and community mentor are two shining examples of what continued learning makes possible.
Celebrating Every Step Forward
We also express our deepest gratitude to the Salford Learning City Partnership, event organisers, judges, sponsors, and fellow community organisations across Greater Manchester for bringing people together to champion the transformative power of adult learning.
Most importantly, we hope Layla and Sybil’s journeys inspire others to take that crucial first step. Whether you want to improve your digital skills, explore higher education, publish a book, or change careers, it is never too late to begin.
Ready to Take Your Next Step?
Visit Our Community Learning Hub
location_on St James’s House, Suite E3, 8th Floor, Pendleton Way, Salford, M6 5FW
Our doors are open every week for free digital drop-ins, IT assistance, and learning support.
Salford Adult Learner Awards 2026 Highlights
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Together, we make Salford Stronger!
Ready to build your confidence with our free Essential Digital Skills training or looking to get involved as a volunteer? Reach out to Connect Talent CIO online or stop by our community hub at Pendleton Gateway today.