The achievements of almost 50 students was recognised at Croydon College's fourth further education awards.
About 150 guests watched students collect their awards in the presence of the guest of honour, Richard Taylor - father of murdered schoolboy Damilola - and the deputy Mayor of Croydon, Councillor Graham Bass.
This year's winner of the Principal's Award was Pragash Ganeshamoorthy, who was born in Sri Lanka and spoke little English when he moved here.
Five years on, Pragash has successfully completed a BTEC in information technology and is studying at the University of Westminster.
He said: "I was surprised but really excited and proud to be this year's winner."
MP for Croydon Central, Andrew Pelling, who attended the event, said: "The awards evening showed how Croydon College is getting the best results of south London colleges."
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