The latest deserving Jack Petchey award winners making their mark
Awards have been handed out to 119 young people from Lambeth and Southwark in recognition of contributions made to their schools, colleges and local clubs.
The Jack Petchey Foundation Achievement Awards were presented to youths aged 11-25 at a live event at Smith Square Hall in Westminster.
Winners received medallions and framed certificates from the Foundation, along with a £300 grant for them to spend to benefit their school/college or youth group.
In addition, five adults were awarded Leader Awards for demonstrating outstanding ability to motivate young people. They also received a medallion and framed certificate.
The Jack Petchey Foundation, created in 1999, has invested over £3.9m in Lambeth and Southwark since funding started.
Among the inspiring winners was Emiliano Giunta, 17, who attends Woodmansterne School & Sixth Form.
Emiliano won his award for showing ‘an admirable attitude’ to his Sixth Form learning across his subjects, including Economics and French.
Those nominating him said he is known to be a helpful and approachable classmate, who provides support to peers who struggle with work, by explaining or teaching the concept to them, showcasing his dependable nature.
On winning the award, Emiliano said: “It was an amazing opportunity and very blessed to receive this award. Thank you to the Foundation for motivating me to achieve the best that I can.”
Emiliano decided to spend his £300 Jack Petchey Achievement Award Grant on a fun, interactive language tool for the MFL Department.
Another award winner was Deborah Onyeukwu, 13, who attends Harris Academy, Peckham.
Deborah was feted for being an outstanding contributor to the Music Department. She consistently overcomes significant personal barriers, given that she has a speech impediment.
Her school said she has shown great courage and has put herself forward to the spotlight on stage in both choir and orchestra. “She is an asset to the school with an impeccable record for behaviour, and consistently courteous to staff and students,” her teachers said.
On the event and winning her award, Deborah said: “I found this event interesting and I am proud to be here and it was a huge honour to me.”
Deborah decided to spend her £300 grant on instruments for the Music Department.
Another particularly worthy of mention was Harry Kite, 12, who attends The St Thomas The Apostle College.
His award was in recognition of his keen involvement with everything in the school.
The school said: “He takes his role as library champion very seriously and is an active member in the school charity committee. He always leads by example, whether that be supporting the Christmas hampers or running class events during charity week.
“He has just recently completed a 5K run for Cancer Research. He is truly a real role model for everyone in the school.
Harry decided to spend his grant on a Year 7 bowling trip.
Sir Jack Petchey, who died earlier this year, always said: “I am passionate about our awards scheme which enables young people to be recognised, valued and rewarded for their achievements and positive contributions to society.”
Pictured top: Emiliano Giunta with his medal (Picture: Jack Petchey Foundation)