The Inspirational Youth Award is awarded to inspirational young people in the community who make a difference to other people’s lives and putting other people’s physical needs before their own.
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The Pride of Essex Inspirational Youth Award 2025 was sponsored by P&A Wood.
At just 20, Ella, from Great Baddow, founded The Pachamama Project during the first Covid-19 lockdown. Originally planning to volunteer in refugee camps, she taught herself to sew and began making reusable sanitary pads from donated materials to combat period poverty. Her initiative quickly grew into a global movement.
Driven by her own experience of severe period pain and the belief that menstruation should never hinder opportunity, Ella mobilised over 2,500 volunteers across 11 countries—including the UK, Lebanon, Pakistan, and Syria—to produce 160,000 pads, supporting 20,000 women. Each person receives eight pads that last up to five years, helping students stay in school and refugees maintain dignity.
The Pachamama Project is a zero-commitment, beginner-friendly initiative offering a sustainable, compassionate solution to a global issue: empowering thousands through practical support and community action.
These Flying Fish, from Burnham-on-Crouch, are an inspirational young team preparing to row across the Atlantic. They’ll cast off on Christmas Day this year in support of the Teenage Cancer Trust. Rowan Dally (21), Anna Dunk (19) and Harry Allen (19) aim to break the world record for the youngest team ever to complete The World's Toughest Row.
During the past three years, they have raised funds for this incredible challenge and also delivered motivational talks at schools, encouraging young people to pursue their dreams.
One of the team members, Rowan, also serves as a crew member with the local RNLI. Through their journey, the team hopes to inspire the youth of Essex and beyond to believe that with determination, anything is possible.
Takondwa and Ben, from Southend-on-Sea, co-founded The YES Network (Young Entrepreneurs Southend-On-Sea), a free platform supporting young entrepreneurs and professionals. Their mission is to empower the community through mentorship, collaboration, and practical business support.
Takondwa, a full-time worker and dedicated community leader, runs school outreach projects helping students build confidence and explore entrepreneurship. His commitment earned him the Jack Petchey Award from Southend United Football Club in 2012.
Ben, who works full-time at the local council, connects grassroots initiatives with public resources. He manages logistics, builds partnerships, and ensures YES Network services remain free and accessible.
Together, they’ve created a vibrant hub offering guidance, resources, and real-world insights to those who might not otherwise have access.
Sonny’s Army was founded in 2019 by cousins Bobbie-Jean (12) and Destiny (15) after Bobbie’s younger brother spent months in hospital with congenital heart disease. Inspired by the experience, they began creating care boxes for families of seriously ill children. Over time, Sonny’s Army became a registered charity supporting hospitals and the local community.
They raise funds for the Royal Brompton Hospital and provide emergency packs for families in need. Locally, they host seasonal events: sports days, Easter, Halloween, and Christmas celebrations, bringing joy through home visits from the Easter Bunny and Father Christmas, festive parties, and Christmas dinners. Each September, “Heart Day” features live performances to raise awareness and funds.
Run entirely by volunteers, Sonny’s Army makes a meaningful impact, especially for children with sensory needs. They offer Tendring’s only special needs Santa’s Grotto, ensuring every child can meet Santa in a calm, inclusive setting. Despite challenges, including Sonny’s ongoing hospital treatments, the charity remains devoted to helping others.
George, 17, from South Woodham Ferrers, is an inspirational young man living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a severe muscle-wasting condition that has confined him to a wheelchair for most of his life. Determined to make a difference, George, has written a book and is working on a second to encourage young people with Duchenne to embrace life fully. His social media helps him connect with others, offering support, guidance, and a sense of community.
Beyond writing and advocacy, George has raised thousands of pounds for charities through fundraising campaigns supported by a network of family, friends, and followers.
The Pride of Essex Inspirational Youth Award 2023 was sponsored by P&A Wood.
Sophia, was diagnosed, with two rare forms of cancer, during Covid, aged just 10. She had to have her leg amputated, and endure, the overwhelming emotional and physical strain, and harsh treatment of chemotherapy - the brutal side effects, the nausea, hair loss, and exhaustion - and then having to relearn, the basic act of walking. Instead of allowing cancer to define her life, and control her future, she is using her tale, to inspire people, raising crucial awareness, of childhood cancer. Sophia, not only learned to walk again, but she also took it upon herself, to learn how to ride a bike! Now age 13, she's taken on a new passion, for riding, and is using it, to show the world, that nothing can stop her! As a young amputee, who had already kicked cancer's butt, she took on the incredible challenge, of riding 100km on a tandem, last September, for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.
Her Nominator, Lindsey Bidwell, said, “Sophia volunteers so much time to our children's cancer charity and is a real-life superhero, and a wonderful advocate of support, to other children who have cancer. She deserves such recognition, for her strength, bravery, resilience and sheer determination, alongside her beautiful big heart and smile.”
Rosemary’s story is a testament to resilience, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to helping others, even in the face of adversity. Rosemary’s journey has been fraught with challenges, diagnosed with Autism, she has faced unique hurdles in understanding and navigating the world around her. The challenges extended beyond autism, as Rosemary grew older, she faced mental health battles, which added an even more daunting layer to her journey. She faced many weeks in and out of hospital and she became estranged from part of her family, a heart-breaking separation which at times left her feeling isolated and alone. Yet even in the face of these immense hardships, Rosemary was unwavering in her kindness towards others and animals. She transformed her own pain into a powerful drive to make a difference in the lives of those around her. She has shown huge courage pushing herself forward and out of her comfort zone to gain an apprenticeship within a care home. The drive to help others ever present but also the drive to understanding herself, digging deep inside to experience herself in a new light. This resilience and compassion demonstrate that even in the most challenging circumstances, one person can create profound change, not only for themselves but for others in the community, she is an inspirational young lady.
Jayden, who comes from Southend, was born with Downs Syndrome, yet despite his difficulties, he always tried to live as any normal healthy and energetic boy would, always enjoying being ‘on the go’. He loved singing and dancing, watching musicals at the theatre, swimming, bowling, riding a bike, basketball, walking, and playing at the park. He managed his own personal and hygiene needs, and enjoyed attending a special needs school, where he had many friends, and was doing well. Suddenly, on a normal day, in November 2022, Jayden had a random seizure. He ended up, in an induced coma, in the Royal London Hospital, where he remained, until the beginning of this year, before being moved to a ward. Jayden suffered 3 strokes, and has been diagnosed, with Hyper-trophic Cardio-myopathy and Moya-moya (HCM) a very rare condition. Jayden is a fighter … it’s a miracle, that he’s still here, he’s a real superhero, still managing to smile, and give off infectious laughs. Now, following a great deal of effort, he is beginning to talk again. Currently, unable to walk, following the loss of movement in his limbs, he is waiting, to undergo intensive rehabilitation, at Tadworth hospital. Meanwhile, he is managing a little in a walking frame, and working in a pool.
His Nominator, Carer Lisa Mallaby, said, “Jayden is a real inspiration to us all, he always enjoyed being out and about, but it’s been almost a year since he last saw the outside world. He still has so much love and care for others, he will never give up; and all his friends will never give up on him.”
Charlie is an amazing young man who celebrates his autism diagnosis and how his special brain processes information. Charlie decided he wanted to create an inclusive football team where any child could come to play football in a safe environment and feel included and understood, regardless of their age, stage or difference. From this idea of Charlie’s, Autistic FC was born. There are now approximately 50 members and are training twice a week. Charlie and Autistic FC have been interviewed on Sky Sport News and BBC Newsround and their ultimate goal would be an Autistic League. He has his own YouTube channel and has created merchandise for Autistic FC. Charlie is passionate about all things Autistic FC and has been a massive friend and inspiration to his team members.
The Pride of Essex Inspirational Youth Award 2022 was sponsored by P&A Wood.
Libby Cots was diagnosed with severe Aplastic Anaemia, a rare blood disorder where the bone marrow doesn't make enough blood cells, including red blood cells that transport oxygen to the rest of the body. Her family was told that she urgently needed a stem cell transplant. Libby was due to receive her transplant just before Christmas 2020 but, unfortunately, the stem cell donor became unavailable.
Following the devastating news that her planned transplant could no longer go ahead, Libby's family and friends jumped into action, launching the ‘Love for Libby’ campaign. Fortunately, a donor was found, and Libby is now classed as cured but is still being monitored by doctors as she is at risk of developing other illnesses. Her family share her progress online in order to raise awareness.
In early 2021 Libby was confined to a hospital room at Great Ormond Street hospital for 6 weeks while having chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant. Her progress has been phenomenal therefore she deserves the inspirational youth award for helping others find donors and inspiring fundraising.
Her family also deserve recognition for setting up the Love for Libby campaign, the funds raised exceed £300,000 for the Anthony Nolan Trust.
Ty manages a beach hut on Mersea Island where he provides wonderful opportunities for people facing the most difficult times in their lives. He regularly gifts his beach hut for the day to people facing illness, disability, hardship, violence, and end of life. He gets local businesses and the community together to give people a fabulous chance to make memories and forget their reality for a while.
He has donated 63 'diamond days' which are free days for people with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or other difficult circumstances. 8 days have been donated to families who have recently lost a child. 18 'platinum days' have been donated to families who need to make special memories due to a palliative diagnosis. Not only does he donate the days, but he takes great care in to finding out any special wishes that the recipients would like to make their days extra special so there have been visits from an Ed Sheeran tribute singer, 'Mary Poppins', lambs, goats, guinea pigs a bearded dragon and a corn snake. Cream teas, lunches and cakes are all supplied. Other gifts include art packs, handmade quilts and blankets, sweets, and bouquets of flowers.
Ty also faces his own challenges with Autism, learning difficulties and the very tragic loss of his brother. Yet he moves heaven and earth to ensure other families receive some happiness, care, and love.
Nominator Ruth Scholar wrote, “Ty is a shining example of triumph over adversity, with the happiness of others at the heart of everything he does.”
Nominator Lorraine Carter wrote, “Ty is one of the kindest souls I have ever met. There are times when he feels unwell due to his own health conditions, but his special visitors always come first. I am pleased to say he has been well supported by the Mersea Island Community but a ‘Pride of Essex Award’ in recognition for all he has achieved would be just amazing”.
Lyndon is a nurse in the NHS. His very proud grandmother Victoria wrote in her nomination “Lyndon joined Broomfield Hospital as a student nurse, aged 19 in 2018. He is dedicated to his job and virtually refuses to miss a day off.
Since the start of lockdown in March 2020, he has served 2 years continuously on the Covid Ward. Although as a student he could have asked to gain experience on other wards, the situation was so desperate he chose to stay. We are very proud of him and find his vocation and dedication to nursing inspirational”.
During a couple of the worst years for business and trading, Takondwa and Daniel created a new clothing business named ‘Divided London’, since then they have done everything they can, to establish the new business, They are an inspiration to the people of Southend-on-Sea as they started with nothing and built such a well-presented product. Not only have they created the brand, but they have also contributed to charity through it. Last year they hosted a ‘Divided London’ football match, all the money received was donated to charity. They also visit their former secondary school to address assemblies to help motivate the pupils. Takondwa and Daniel make a difference within the community, with the brand they have put together and charity events.
Their nominator Tyler Thomas said, “As a team I think Daniel and Takondwa are perfect candidates for an award for the amount of effort they have put into the new enterprise, and the inspirational example they have made to other youngsters”.
Joe has been volunteering at Kaos Youth Club in Rochford, a charitable run organisation for young people aged 10 plus. Joe is the deputy leader and has led on various inspirational ideas to engage young people. Activities include X box, PS4, pool, cooking, Football, Music, disco, table tennis. Fundraising from cake sales to Quiz nights for local hospitals. During our late Queens Green Canopy celebration, youngsters grew their own fruit trees and oak trees to do their contribution to the environment. During this time the group has grown to be the largest youth and social support group within the district. To ensure that he is suitably able to support young people in the club Joe has undertaken training to include PHAB DBS, Mental Health, 1st Aid and is a Safeguarding Officer Level 3.
Joe proves that helping young leaders to take on responsibility is one of the key attributes to this growing the club. The club has trebled in size becoming a well-run, fun filled social environment.
The Pride of Essex Inspirational Youth Award 2021 was sponsored by P&A Wood.
Edd Hollier together with many friends including Alfie Higgins, Chloe Ayling and Luke Wojkik established a group called Clean up Chelmsford. This non-profit group began when a few 18 year olds from Chelmsford were at a loose end and decided to spend their time picking up litter. They came across a once beautiful area that was neglected; it had become overgrown, was covered with loads of rubbish and tipping debris. They formed a plan to work on restoring the area to make it suitable for everyone in the community to use. They decided to call themselves ‘Clean up Chelmsford’. They persuaded tree surgeon Mark Box to lend his services for free and together they turned an eyesore into an attractive wildlife garden suitable for families, and safe for children to play. As they progressed they posted photos and videos on social media. They arranged a group funding page and gathered more help, at one stage they had a pool of 240 volunteers. They ran litter picks with local social clubs, went to schools and talked about the environment and assisting the community.
All was not plain sailing, one evening Edd was set upon by a group of loud and unruly youngsters, when he asked them to pick up their litter he was attacked, fortunately he managed to make it home, almost unscathed. After reporting to the Police, Edd arranged for CCTV to be installed and some Solar powered lighting. Apart from influence, advice and sharing their knowledge, the group have now had to return to their studies. Next year Ed hopes to begin his studies in Bath University in a ten year quest to become a Psychotherapist. He and his friends will have left behind a legacy that could, and should, improve all our futures.
Michael is a professional disability tennis player. He plays in the LTA’s National GB Tennis Squad for learning disability. Since joining the squad, he has been working hard in the hope of being selected to represent the country internationally. He currently trains at the National Tennis Centre in London. Michael has won many National events, including gold medals, at various disability tennis tournaments across the UK. He is currently training to become a fully qualified tennis coach, as he wants to give something back to the community around him, and keep the passion of tennis alive. Michael has just recently been appointed as an Ambassador for the ‘Give It Your Max’ organisation based in London, their aim is to support and encourage children from underprivileged backgrounds to play tennis. They want him to visit different schools and events, to share his story with children of all ages. His sister Kerry-Alice says, “Michael is a truly inspirational young man, despite facing adversity in life, he has already achieved a great deal”
Harrison is a young lad aged 13 who is Autistic. He is an ambassador for an organisation called The Multi Schools Council who strive to break down perceptions in disabilities and Mental health. He has raised awareness through talking about his own experiences such as the bullying he received when he first got into secondary school. He has been involved in various projects involving The Multi Schools Council, such as speaking at an inclusion conference for head teachers, he’s always present at meetings and gives great ideas. He also climbed Mount Snowdon to raise money for The Multi Schools Council. He has overcome a lot of adversities at such a young age and yet he’s always helping others even putting them before himself. He was awarded ambassador of the year in 2020 for The Multi Schools Council for breaking down perceptions, attending events on their behalf. He has also supported Essex with improvements he is truly an inspiration. Harrison has raised awareness around Autism and has done videos in the past talking about Autism and why he embraces it, and why it makes him who he is.
His Nominator Connell Scholar says “I’m so proud of the way he’s overcome adversities at such a young age, he’s like a little brother to me and I know for a fact he’ll go on to achieve great things"
In 2014 younger brother Harry was diagnosed with battens disease, a life limiting neuro-degenerative condition. Harry lost all life skills one by one. Joshua courageously took each loss head-on for his brother, learning the medical procedures needed to support him, such as tube feeding and suctioning. Joshua also helped our family create a charity called ‘sponsor a sibling’ to support those who have a poorly brother or sister like himself. His Mother says, “Joshua always puts everybody else before himself. He thoroughly deserves to be recognised for the inspirational young man he is.”
Connor is a member of the Witham Community Facebook page and there you are be able to see, from his many posts, what a kind and thoughtful young man he is. Connor is passionate about the care of animals and wildlife. ‘Foxed Out’ is a group he made for anyone to join, regardless of age. They seek to educate through posters (and printable information sheets on all native wildlife), fact posts, harmless/peaceful activism, and rescuing. There are fun ideas for children and adults to do regarding animals, including craft projects for children to do for hedgehogs, birds, and our native reptiles and amphibians! Making sure the little ones can get involved too but safely! He also cares about his community and makes a great effort to contribute.
The Pride of Essex Inspirational Youth Award 2020 was sponsored by P&A Wood.
As a young boy, Danny was intrigued to watch his late father boxing to raise awareness for people like him with Down’s Syndrome. Danny’s parents founded a charity called ‘Danny’s Challenge’ to help people with Down’s Syndrome. After the sudden passing of Danny Mardell Snr, young Danny wanted to keep his father’s legacy alive so with his mother Carol’s help they restarted ‘Danny’s Challenge’ and Danny took up boxing. Danny Junior and Carol went to the Peacock Gym and had a meeting with the owners Mark and Jimmy Tibbs and there he started his boxing. The first charity exhibition fight against boxing promoter Jack ‘Dom’ Shepherd was a great success. Danny has trained hard to carry on raising money for various charities. From the age of 14 to date, Danny is now 25, he has raised around £100,000 for all types of young people with difficult challenges, special needs and cancer charities. He has taken part so far in a total of 8 of these charity exhibition fights. Danny loves his training and being in the gym where he is a well known and loved character. He has a massive presence that shines wherever he goes, with a cheeky smile on his face that puts a smile on everyone else’s faces around him (unless you’re in the ring with him!). As well as boxing, Danny loves his football, athletics and swimming. He recently completed a 50 length swimming challenge at the London Aquatics Centre in Stratford. Danny is a true credit to his family and friends and is of course an inspiration.
Maya has been battling Leukaemia since October 2018, and has had to endure gruelling chemotherapy, endless rounds of drugs, and procedures just to get her to where she is today. During her journey she has been an active fundraiser and took part in Relay for Life in Clacton along with supporting their various other events, she even hosted an afternoon tea at her house whilst battening her illness. Her friend and nominator Kelly Mitton wrote, “She is so motivating to others and a pillar of strength, in all the time she has been poorly she never once let her illness get in her way, she is an inspiration.”
Mykie was diagnosed with bone cancer in Oct 2017, he had 14 rounds of high dose chemotherapy and underwent limb salvage surgery. Mykie finished treatment in July 2018 happily he remains cancer free. He has since written a book published under the title the ‘Monster in Mykie’. He has written the book to raise awareness of childhood cancer and help other young people that have been diagnosed with or are battling against cancer. Mykie felt if he had of been given a book at the beginning of his cancer journey things would have been a lot clearer to him, he wanted others to have the opportunity to read his book during what can be a very difficult and upsetting time.
At just 18 years of age Rachel has become a valuable and inspiring member of the community. She has passionately represented Essex and volunteered with dedication from a very young age, having been a volunteer on the Basildon Borough Youth Council for over 6 years. She has received a Diana award for being an ‘anti-bullying champion’ and has helped the youth council receive the High Sherriff award for helping to reduce violence within Basildon. She often appears on the BBC Essex “hashtag Essex” program, expressing the views of young people. Rachel has also represented Essex on a national level, as a member of the UK youth parliament for Essex and has delivered a truly inspiring speech in the House of Commons. Last year she became the chair of the UK Youth Select Committee for knife crime. She has chaired sessions in parliament, and represented the young people of Essex at 10 Downing Street, where she met cabinet members to discuss the pressing issue of knife crime. Despite all of her commitments she still finds to raise money for charity, to be a member of the Air Cadets, help as a Wickford library volunteer and be an active member of ‘The Spring of Hope’ choir, singing in care homes every other Sunday. Rachel is not only an inspiration to young people in Essex... but nationwide.
Amber is a great fundraiser. During lockdown she raised £1450, she bought loose sweets packed them in small gift boxes and gave them away as a thank you to, amongst others, the ICU staff at Queens and King George’s Hospitals, to Dagenham ambulance staff, St Francis hospice, local bus staff, Dagenham care and other Care homes. She raised money for the heart foundation, for a local dance school, and regularly gives up her spare time to attend local events with her charity mascots free of charge. She ran a free raffle for local children to win gifts of their choice just to put a smile on their faces. She walked 23 miles over a period of two weeks for charity despite a muscle spasm problem. During this most difficult year she has still managed to raise over four thousand pounds for the Cancer Christie charity. Her Mother Nicola says “Amber is always pushing her self to help others, she is a role model for always working hard”.
The Pride of Essex Inspirational Youth Award 2019 was sponsored by P&A Wood and Watson Accounting.
Toby, who has quadriplegic Cerebral palsy, read about the efforts of Jessica Grocott and her family trying to raise funds to access therapy only available in the US for her 2 year old son Angus, who also has quadriplegic Cerebral palsy. Toby along with the help of his carer Harriett contacted Jessica to say he would like to help ‘team Angus’ Toby and carer Harriett worked tirelessly to organise the ‘wheeler way race’, a race held at Essex University for individuals with disabilities. It was an enormous success fully supported by the community. The day was extremely emotional and inspiring. Toby himself was one of many pushing themselves on the day. Toby started walking with the aid of a specialised walking frame just a few years ago. He has gained strength and confidence since having spinal and hip surgeries and through hard work and determination, combined with a physiotherapy program, has gradually increased the distance he can achieve. He managed to walk the whole race in his walker (something he could never have dreamed capable of a year previous), there were also other entrants carried over the finish line by family members. And Angus also joined in! What a day! Toby is an inspiration and certainly puts others before himself.
Denvar always puts every one else first. Shehelps look after her six-month old special needs niece. She dances for fundraisers to educate children in Guiana. She gives half her pocket money to water aid. Although bullied at school she still achieved good grades. She dances and performs all over to UK and never brags. Denvar is a confident to all her friends has been her mother’s rock since her Granddad passed away.
Her Mother Tammie says, "Denver often goes without to give to others. She works so hard at school, at home and with her dance. She is always happy and smiling, she really is a special soul."
Callum got the taste for caring for others by looking after his older sister Georgina, who suffers from Cerebral Palsy. He went on at 13 to be an ambassador for PARC (Play and Resource Centre) Essex, going into primary schools and talking about the charity. Aged 16 he went to work as a play worker for PARC, whilst completing his BTEC in sports and science. This year he is doing voluntary work for John Bosco at Halstead, looking after younger boys. Callum is a naturally caring, loveable, and funny boy who watches out for anyone who needs help. He is capable of dealing with all situations and is one of PARC Essex strongest play workers mentally and physically. He always tries to give the person he is looking after a lovely time. He doesn’t look on work as anything but a vocation. When younger he was an altar boy and gets a lot of comfort from his religion. Callum always helps his mother and sister with open house cafes raising funds for different charities. Callum visited South Africa with the family, to a baby special needs home and school. Bringing with him donations of boots and kits for a football academy. He used his time there to help in the school.
In 2013 Connie was a pupil at Hedingham School where after seeing the life saving benefits of a defibrillator she set up a fundraising campaign to get one placed in the school. In 2015 youth services in the area were reduced and volunteers from the community were requested to help run youth provisions. Connie stepped forward as soon as she was 18 to volunteer on the Essex Youth Bus at Halstead. She said it was because she had enjoyed attending the bus herself and wanted other young people to have the same opportunity. In 2017 due to the increase in numbers of young people attending the session was moved to Halstead Resource Centre, one session a week increased to two sessions a week. Connie volunteers at both sessions, which has encouraged other young people to consider becoming volunteers. Connie has been a member of St Johns Ambulance since she was six years old and in 2012 was awarded a Grand Prior Award, which is the highest accolade a St Johns Cadet can achieve, she is still part of the St Johns 'family'.
Her nominator Anne Thrussell said, "There are not enough words to describe how much commitment Connie shows in her volunteering. She is reliable, conscientious, a good listener and communicator as well as a great role model for the young people of the area. Although Connie is only 21, she has considerable experience of volunteering and has already provided a great service to the local community."
Peter has undertaken a number of extreme endurance events (marathons, ultra-marathons and adventure races) to raise money for charity, including supporting military veterans, all whilst dressed in a Superman costume and carrying a heavy pack. He has raised tens of thousands of pounds. Peter started running to overcome mental health issues including depression and has put his body on the line to complete some of his more extreme challenges. He wants to raise awareness for mental health issues as well as all the charities he supports. He certainly is an inspiration.
The Pride of Essex Inspirational Youth Award 2018 was sponsored by P&A Wood and Watson Accounting.
Ellie, from Clacton, is an exceptional young athlete who has overcome incredible challenges to excel in sports and academics. Despite losing all of her limbs due to meningitis, Ellie has never let her physical limitations hold her back. At just 13 or 14 years old, she is already a standout in swimming, where she is part of the Paralympic team, and also excels in running, demonstrating remarkable perseverance and strength in every sport she pursues.
In addition to her athletic achievements, Ellie is also an academic achiever, being in all top sets at school, showcasing her intelligence and determination. Her resilience, talent, and drive to succeed despite her circumstances make Ellie an inspiring figure for everyone around her, and she truly embodies the spirit of never giving up. She is a role model for perseverance and a testament to the power of determination.
Six years after receiving the 2018 Pride of Essex Inspirational Youth Award, Ellie won a gold medal representing Team GB at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games, in the category of 50m backstroke S3.
Georgina Riordan is a remarkable young woman who, despite facing significant challenges due to cerebral palsy and other medical conditions, dedicates her time and energy to helping others. Unable to walk, read, or write, Georgina consistently goes above and beyond to make a difference in her community. She is an active fundraiser, regularly running a cafe at the PARC Youth Club in Braintree, with all profits being donated back to the charity. In addition, she has organised a pop-up cafe at home, raising £245 for a friend battling breast cancer. Georgina's fundraising efforts extend internationally, as she raises money for a special needs children's home in South Africa, where she plans to visit and spend time with the children.
Georgina’s compassion and selflessness shine through in her everyday actions. Despite her own challenges, she is always ready to offer support to others, particularly those in distress, especially children. Her kind-hearted nature and dedication to making the world a better place for those around her are truly inspiring. Georgina’s ability to remain positive and give back to her community, even in the face of personal adversity, makes her a deserving candidate for the Inspirational Youth Award. Her family and friends are incredibly proud of the love and joy she brings to their lives.
Tyler May is an exceptional young person whose involvement in various countywide initiatives demonstrates her passion for making a positive impact on her community. As Vice Chairperson of the Maldon Youth Strategy Group, Tyler brings the voice of young people to the table, ensuring their concerns and needs are heard by professionals. She also plays a key role in the Young Commissioners group, where she helped commission an 8-week sports project for young people in her area and negotiated a free gym/swim membership for attendees. Tyler’s commitment to volunteering and supporting her peers is evident in her contributions to First Aid courses and her consistent attendance at monthly meetings.
In addition to her work with Essex Youth Services, Tyler is a dynamic member of the Young Essex Assembly (YEA), where she has led numerous projects, including hosting a countywide event for over 170 students. She also recently MC'd the Jack Petchey Speak Out Challenge with just 24 hours' notice. Tyler’s school involvement is equally impressive, as she leads charitable events and runs assemblies on important topics like anti-bullying. She has also been instrumental in setting up the Pride Youth Network, advocating for the inclusion of LGBT+ students. Tyler is a passionate advocate for equality and youth engagement, consistently showing leadership and dedication in all her endeavors.
Jordon Cox is an extraordinary young man whose resilience and determination in the face of severe health challenges are truly inspiring. At just 21 years old, Jordon has been battling Crohn's disease since January of this year, spending 12 weeks in the hospital and facing the need for surgery in May. Despite enduring immense pain, Jordon has refused to let his illness define him. He has continued his advocacy for Crohn's disease, campaigning to raise awareness and offering support to others. Jordon is also known as 'The Coupon Kid,' using his platform to teach others how to save money through couponing, a passion he has continued to pursue even while in the hospital.
In addition to his work as a couponing expert, Jordon has written and published a full-length book on saving money, which has helped countless people manage their finances. His ability to remain positive and continue working in the face of adversity is a testament to his incredible strength of character. Jordon’s inspiring story and his unwavering commitment to helping others, despite the challenges he faces, make him a deserving nominee for the Inspirational Youth Award. His social media presence has motivated and uplifted many, and he continues to inspire his followers and loved ones with his perseverance and positivity.
Millie is an inspiring young person who consistently demonstrates incredible dedication to helping others. A thoughtful and hardworking student, she has been donating her hair to the Little Princess Trust for several years, providing wigs to children across the UK who have lost their hair due to cancer treatment. Millie’s commitment to charity extends beyond this personal act—she has been a regular participant in Cancer Research UK's events, such as the Relay for Life and Race for Life, raising hundreds of pounds in memory of her aunt.
What makes Millie’s contribution particularly impactful is her willingness to sacrifice her own appearance to make a difference in the lives of other children. Since she was in Year 7, she has shown exceptional maturity and compassion, dedicating her time and effort to causes that support those affected by cancer. Millie’s selflessness and ongoing commitment to fundraising and charity work make her a truly deserving nominee for the 'Inspirational Youth' award.
The Pride of Essex Inspirational Youth Award 2017 was sponsored by P&A Wood and Watson Accounting.
Renee’s medical problems began when she was only 8 weeks old, she was diagnosed with a very rare lung disease. Over the next few years her health continued to be unstable, requiring oxygen and transfusions on a 24hour basis. Great Ormond Street Hospital decided to change her transfusions to a far less painful and traumatic ‘subcut’ method, taking 2 hours in every week, this has now been the case for 13 years. Her parents were told that she might not make it to adulthood without a heart and lung transplant. Luckily, Renee has proved them wrong. However there have been many complications and mountains for Renee to climb. She still needs oxygen for 10 to 12 hours each night, and it appears that her future will always consist of that need, plus medications, transfusions, numerous blood tests and hospital appointments. Despite it all, Renee remains a happy, polite, caring and moreover determined young lady. She was nominated by her school’s assistant head of house, Carolyn Harvey, who informed us that Renee had won an award at school given annually to the student who has achieved despite adversity. In the summer Renee sat 7 GCSEs and passed every single exam.
Jess inspired a whole generation of young people in Essex this year when winning the first ever ‘KIDS VOICE.’ She also impressed her Essex-based mentor ‘Pixie Lott’ with her powerful and beautiful voice, and the polite way she conducted herself throughout the competition. We thank her for helping us this evening and are delighted to include her in our awards.
Abigail has a very large and very close family. When suddenly in the space of just 4 weeks two of their most loved seniors passed away, they were near to breakdown. That’s when Abigail put aside her own needs and made taking care of her five siblings and six cousins her first priority. She got them up in the morning, gave them breakfast, made packed lunches, ensured that they all had a way to get to school, prepared dinner in the evening, and settled them into their beds. She consoled them and put their grief in front of her own. For Abigail there was no time left for friends, clubs and parties, but she made time for college and completed her studies into childcare and passed her exam. There were many nominations for Abigail but the last word should come from her Nan Catherine who wrote, “She is a role model and an inspiration to youth. I have nominated her so she can realise how much she is loved and how much everyone appreciates her hard work.”
Rylee is an outstanding young man who, for the last two years, has selflessly organised a charity football match. He arranges local sponsors, professional looking programs and publicity through social media. Last year he persuaded a professional player from Southend United to attend. He encourages the players from both teams to pay the pitch fees themselves to make as much money as possible for the charity. The match in 2017 supported Macmillan Cancer Support, he set himself a target hoping to raise Eight Hundred pounds eventually he raised just short of Eighteen Hundred Pounds! He is currently allowing the public to vote on which charity the match should support in 2018.
Esther is an amazing young lady, courageous and inspiring, while bravely enduring her fourth battle with cancer. She maintains a positive attitude and is determined to attend Cambridge University as planned. She never utters a word of complaint and is the most kind-hearted, caring and thoughtful person, always putting others before herself and keeping her family strong in the process.
The Pride of Essex Inspirational Youth Award 2016 was sponsored by P&A Wood.
From early on it was evident to mum Wendy that Courtney-Lee was a special child. Wendy almost lost her life when losing her twin boys. Courtney-Lee was just five years old but would, without being asked, carry bottles of water and fruit to her sick mothers side. Hugging her when she fell into an unconscious state and still there as she woke. Wendy’s granddaughter tragically passed away just ten weeks later. Courtney-Lee took over the role of 'big sister' to her other granddaughter, making sure she never experienced the loneliness of being an only child. All the while Courtney-Lee was, and continues to be, totally amazing with her younger sister Kacey-Lee, who has severe autism and is totally non-verbal.
Now as a young teenager Courtney-Lee’s efforts have extended to the community. She has her own fundraising groups on Facebook donating all profits to charity. She’s a regular at Basildon hospital children’s wards, last dressed as Anna from Frozen, donating gifts to the patients and doing rounds of the wards so they can meet the character. Courtney-Lee is a regular donator to Thurrock’s foodbanks, and is always supporting all the charity and fundraising events she can find. Nothing is ever too much trouble. She keeps up with all this as well as studying for A levels in law, psychology and English literature. She recently began giving her time as a radio presenter for community radio station Phoenix FMM, becoming at just 16 their youngest ever drive show presenter. Courtney-Lee is now a young ambassador for ‘Follow Your Dreams’, a national charity supporting children and young people with special needs and learning difficulties. She has also become the youngest person in Thurrock to hold a Chaperone's license, so she can help out with community shows and events.
Mum Wendy says, “I believe all children are treasured gifts, but I have truly never met anyone like my inspirational daughter Courtney-Lee.”
On the 23rd July David was with his parents on a beach in Norfolk, when a rather dramatic and life threatening event took place. Seeing people in distress in the water David did not hesitate to dive in and swim towards the men. When he reached the scene he had to make a mature and life altering decision of which of the people to rescue. He assessed signs of life, made his choice and dragged the younger victim back to the beach. Here other people were able to offer CPR and ultimately revive the victim. Such a mature and selfless decision that many adults would have struggled to make was taken by a very young man who showed no signs of panic.
His Nominator Ann Robinson-Smith said, "This selflessness is truly representative of David’s caring and sharing nature both inside and outside of school."
18 yrs old Craig was originally recommended to ‘Action for Family Carers’ (AFFC) as someone who relates well to young people. Being a young carer himself, he was able to offer practical and emotional support to other young people who had a caring responsibility. Craig is interested in gaining practical work experience as a possible career.
His nominator, Volunteer Coordinator, Sandra Amey-Martin, said, “Craig brings enthusiasm and fun to the weekly club nights and takes on his role responsibly. He is always willing to learn to enable him to help more, and is extremely reliable. Besides volunteering weekly on a Wednesday, Craig was a great help over the summer break on day trips and events. Somehow he manages his time really well alongside his own caring role at home. For us at AFFC it is fantastic to have a young male role model who is so enthusiastic about sport and fitness. He is well liked amongst the other young carers and respected throughout the team. He is a huge asset, we are lucky to have him.”
Deacon is the weekend activities coordinator at the Earls Colne residential home. This may be Deacons weekend job but he gives 100% of himself to it. He is only 22 years old yet before he came, weekends in the home were very long, dull and quiet. As he is a student he was able and prepared to do lots of extra days in the summer. He cares about all the residents and spends time with each of them bringing so much joy and happiness. He has the most amazing kind and caring nature, he organises musical entertainers, helps residents celebrate their birthdays, even down to discussing decorating the rooms for them. Most of the residents have some form of dementia or Alzheimer’s, however he patiently spends time with each of them adapting his games (most of which he has thought up himself) to their individual needs. He managed to organise two trips to the seaside this year so everyone who wanted to, could go, some hadn't seen the sea in 20 years. There have been several previous activity coordinators during the time my mum has been a resident, but none were a patch on him. He is an absolute angel who brings a lot of lovely elderly residents a reason to enjoy weekends again by bringing as much joy as he can to their lives now.
Abbie, despite being born with the handicap of Spina Bifida has managed to train, for seven years, with the South Essex Gymnastic Club in Basildon. The club have a disability section where she started volunteering, always conscientiously working, training or helping out with events. The club is very proud of her achievements. On Sunday, September 11 this year she became the first South Essex Club member to compete in the British Disability Gymnastics Championships at the National Sports Centre. Abbie won three historic medals for the club, a gold on the bars, a silver on the floor, and was awarded the overall bronze medal. Abbie now assists the club as a coach and has progressed to being a paid member of staff, albeit on a zero hour contract, as she is still at college.
Kayleigh Peak, South Essex Assistant Head of Gym School, said, “We are very proud of Abbie and look forward to her future in this discipline, which can only be bright after winning three British medals.”
Nominations for the 2025 Pride of Essex Awards are now closed.
© Pride of Essex Awards 2025