A young role model from Stockport has been presented with a British Citizen Youth Award, created in association with Specsavers.
The British Citizen Youth Award is in association with world’s largest optical retailer, Specsavers and recognises individuals under the age of 16 that positively impact others and highlights the positive aspects of multi-cultural communities, workplaces, community groups and charities throughout the UK.
TWENTY THREE inspiring youngsters from across the UK were recognised at this year’s British Citizen Youth Award (BCyA) for their extraordinary contribution to society, charities and good causes.
Georgie Cavanagh from Cheadle was honoured for her efforts at a formal presentation held at the Palace of Westminster attended by 120 guests including host, Rt. Hon. Lord Dholakia, patrons Dame Mary Perkins, Nicky Cox MBE and presenter Ashley Banjo.
Now in its third year, the BCyA, in association with Specsavers, highlights individual acts of bravery, kindness and compassion from young people across the UK.
Incredible stories
Georgie, 13, a pupil at The Kingsway School, is a youth ambassador for BulliesOut, a national charity that works to fight bullying across the country.
Having experienced bullying first-hand while at primary school, Georgie, now a pupil at The Kingsway School, was determined to help others who had been in a similar situation. Although Georgie felt able to share her experience with an adult, she realised other children might not have the same confidence to do so.
Through fundraising events such as indoor skydiving and arts & crafts fairs at The Kingsway School, where she made and sold Christmas decorations, Georgie has raised over £800 for the charity.
In May last year, she took part in the Great Manchester Junior Run which took place just days after the Manchester Arena bombing.
Leanne Baker, Georgie’s mum, says,
“Georgie was adamant that she would still participate in the run, even though we were worried it might not be safe. She didn’t want to let down either the charity or anyone who had donated money.
“Georgie remembers what it feels like to be picked on and isolated and she has been single-minded about making sure she makes a difference in other children’s lives. We couldn’t be more proud of her.”
Medallist
Georgie received their BCyA medal from Ashley Banjo, creative director and lead dancer of Diversity, whose dance troupe won the third series of Britain’s Got Talent.
Ashley says,
“This time last year I was invited to present the British Citizen Youth Award for the first time. I was amazed by the endeavours of all the young medallists who came from all corners of the UK. The inclusivity of the Award is stunning and the medallists really are representative of all that is good about Britain’s younger population.
“I am honoured to be able to play a part in the British Citizen Youth Awards. These inspirational young people are making a difference and encouraging other young people to do the same.”
Deborah Morley, store director of Specsavers Stockport, added,
“As a partner of the British Citizen Youth Awards, it is always uplifting to hear about the amazing things that local young people are doing both within our community and across the UK.
“Whether it be raising money for charity or helping those in need, we want to grow awareness of these achievements and inspire the next generation of children to make a similarly positive impact on society.”
Following the formal medal presentations, all guests were treated to an Open Top Lap of Honour Tour of the capital courtesy of Big Bus London, which has supported the BCyA since its inception.
Nominations are now being accepted for the 2019 medal presentations, register online at www.britishcitizenyouthawards.co.uk.