To celebrate World Children’s Day earlier this month I launched the Young Leading Light Awards to celebrate the amazing actions of some of our younger residents who have been stepping up throughout the pandemic.
The nominations we received were incredibly inspiring, with young people showing how important kindness and compassion is. Today I want to shout out a special few members of our community who have acted in selflessness in care and support for others.
One of our youngest nominees is Maisy Smillie who at just 6 years old shows that you’re never too young to make a difference. In just one week Maisy was able to raise £600 by scootering 26 miles. The money she raised went to the Ickle Pickles Children’s Charity – which supported Maisy and her family when her brother was born prematurely - to fund equipment for the neonatal ward for premature babies. Well done Maisy, what an amazing achievement!
Next up we have Abigail Webber, who despite facing her own difficulties when lockdown meant having to shield from family and friends, continued to put others first and help those in need. 13 year old Abigail created her own support group to make sure that others were okay, offering them friendship and support. She has also been busy making scrubs, scrub bags and masks since the first lockdown, which is of great value to the whole community. But that’s not all! With this second lockdown and Christmas around the corner Abigail has been writing Christmas cards for local care homes, making sure that older people receive a special something this festive period.
Some of the most remarkable acts of kindness are those that happen when nobody’s looking. 12 year old Brooke Corbin has been giving joyful gestures to help put smiles on the faces of those around the community. Brooke has written out recipes for sweet treats, hiding them for people to find and bake as well as writing cheerful quotes to bring others joy. At home Brooke has been busy making sure her 4 year old brother has been happily entertained throughout lockdown with activities such as rock painting and walks. During this time it has been so important to check in on loved ones and Brooke has been doing so with school friends and arranging online get togethers to raise morale. Brooke’s thoughtful acts of kindness have far reaching effects, spreading joy throughout our community.
Equally inspiring is 12 year old Lexie Knoll-Pollard, who has recently been awarded a certificate by The British Legion for the money she raised by selling her toys for the Poppy Appeal. Additionally, Lexie organised a swimathon for a friend’s Mother who is living with cancer. Four young ladies all in her age group were able to raise hundreds of pounds for this amazing cause by swimming 5 miles each over two days. To raise more money for this same cause Lexie also spent her time making and selling yummy treats and cakes. Lexie has gone above and beyond with these selfless acts which are so inspiring to see.
Our final nominee is 11 year old Rogan Morrill. During the first lockdown Rogan worked hard at Jacobs Well Care Centre Charity, where he and his Dad were busy making up food parcels and delivering them to people in need. In Rogan’s free time he helps out at the food bank providing great support to the team. Rogan also helps out with collection point for food at school. Rogan is an amazing young man who spends his time helping out others.
All of our nominees have shown the most remarkable acts of kindness and selflessness which have been so very important this past year. These young residents prove that thoughtfulness goes a long way in spreading cheer throughout the community and we are so lucky to have such wonderful young people here in Gosport.