A budding culinary star, singing guru and photography expert were just three of the Hackney youngsters who bagged awards on another stellar Jack Petchey Foundation night.
The bash – held at Stoke Newington Town Hall on Tuesday – saw 97 young people from schools and clubs across the borough receive a £250 prize, medal and certificate after being nominated by their peers and teachers.
Among the winners was Rachel Williams, who attends special educational school The Garden and has caught teachers’ eye on several occasions through her work helping early years students with their communication skills.
The 13-year-old, who has especially excelled at leading singing sessions, is spending her money on a school trip to Southend.
Similarily wowing the judges were the achievements of Petchey Academy student Nataly Claure Abanto, who beat 8,000 budding foodies across the capital in a regional round of the “future chef” cooking contest – in no small part down to her “incredible resilience and determination”.
Speaker of Hackney Cllr Soraya Adjure, who presented the awards, said: “What an inspiring event. It has been a privilege to see and hear the reasons these young people have won their awards.
“Coming from the borough myself, it’s rewarding to see such positivity promoted.
“Thank you to all the teachers, parents, carers and the Jack Petchey Foundation for all your help and support.”
Members of Hackney Quest, a Well Street charity that provides activities and support for Hackney families, are set for a trampolining trip thanks to Paige Howard Matthews. The 13-year-old has been lauded for her efforts in nurturing and motivating younger members of the programme.
Danish Khairul of Worldwrite was recognised for teaching another member of the charity club to use a DSLR camera. The 17-year-old wants to spend his winnings on new resources for Worldwrite.
Also recognised by the foundation – which has donated more than £3million to youth organisations and schools in Hackney since 2000 – was Nicola Constantinou, 13. She’s been attending Springfield Motor Racing Club for four years and grown from a shy girl into a confident member who gets involved in all activities. She has earned the club a summer party.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here