Lewisham’s inspiring young denizens earn awards recognising uplifting efforts
A fresh round of awards have been handed out to young people in Lewisham for their outstanding contributions to life in the community.
In total, 84 incredible young people from schools and colleges in the borough received prestigious Jack Petchey Foundation Achievement Awards presented at an event at Catford Broadway.
The award winners – all aged from 11-25 – were recognised for their for the part they play at their school, college or club. Winners received medallions and framed certificates from the foundation, along with a £300 grant for them to spend to benefit their school or club.
Three adults were also awarded Leader Awards for demonstrating outstanding ability to motivate young people. They each received a medallion and a framed certificate.
Among those earning awards was Kamari Best, 14, who attends Prendergast Ladywell School. Kamari won the Jack Petchey Achievement Award for his “relentless positivity and excellent work ethic.”
He is described as collaborative, creative and extremely hardworking, and a role model to other year nine students. He is “polite, thoughtful and kind to others and is always willing to go the extra mile to achieve his personal best.”
Kamari said: “Winning this award showed me that if you strive for greatness, you can achieve anything. I felt very proud of my achievement and representing my school. Be the Best, Make the Best.”
Kamari decided to spend his £300 grant on the PE and drama departments. He purchased bibs and a storage bag, along with a projector.
David Akinyele-Aje, 15, who attends Forest Hill School, won his award for exceptional contributions to the school community and an exemplary attitude.
He has consistently demonstrated focus, determination, and a commendable work ethic in every aspect of his school life, playing a leading role in the robotics and computing club for years seven, eight and nine.
His patience and dedication in mentoring younger students are said to be truly admirable. He takes the time to guide them through new computer concepts that he has independently researched.
On winning the award, David said: “Getting the award felt really rewarding and I feel more accomplished and it inspires me to continue more in my passion.”
David decided to spend his grant on the robotics club to help younger students in robot making and computer systems.
Keziah Greenall, 15, who attends Sabina Netball Club was feted for her inspiring transformation. Her shyness gave way to a greater confidence and she has proved to be an inspirational leader. volunteering to mentor younger players. Her grant will go on protection for the netball post and new carrier for balls for training.
Two other very notable winners were Tremaine Thompson, 14, from Prendergast Vale – for being a model student, who sets and fine example to others – his grant will go on an end of term part for his peers – and Nickayla Ssali, 13, of Trinity School.
Nickayla entered into the young mayor of Lewisham campaign and was one of 37 candidates competing for the role in trying to make a difference in the borough. Not only has Nickayla been open and honest about her autism, but she has also tried to use that to make a difference in society. She has advocated for autism through her campaign.
The Jack Petchey Foundation has invested over £1.6m in Lewisham since funding started.
Edison Huynh, cabinet member for children and young people, who handed out awards on the night, said: “It’s my job to advocate for all the amazing young people in Lewisham. The VIPs of the night were all the award winners tonight who have shown such great determination and character. We are all so proud of them.”
Pictured top: Award winner Nickayla (Picture: Jack Petchey Foundation)