A QE student who has dedicated more than 250 hours to volunteering around her A Level studies and a group of teenagers who created a poppy remembrance display were among those honoured for their remarkable contributions to society at the Queen Elizabeth Volunteering awards. Eighteen-year-old Izzy Murray, who coaches weekly dance sessions, was among the students at QE who were celebrated at its annual volunteering awards. Having dedicated more than 250 hours to volunteering over the last 12 months, said: ‘Volunteering has made me more confident, a better dancer and allowed me to give something back.’
The awards evening coincided with the anniversary of D DAY and appropriately the project of the year was presented by Sgt Andy Cornfield to a group of student s from the Colleges Interact group and cadets who put together over 2500 poppies as a display for remembrance day. A fitting award on such a day.
The Young Citizen Award. Winner Katie Rooney has actively collaborated with the local authority to empower fellow young people in care, advocating for changes within the care system such as campaigning for free digital support for care leavers. A recent speech at a Regional Conference, attended by over 100 peers, was described as truly inspirational, earning her invitations to speak at more events.
QE Dares, a society in college which promotes equality and was at the forefront of the Colleges cultural week, collected the Chris Wiper Award for Outstanding Commitment to the Service of Others members receiving the award were Leila Bevu, Eesha Puri, Zuderis Mansela & Kesa Qarau. Leila said, the chance to share our different cultures is fantastic, and was so well received, we hope to build on it year on year”
Volunteer of the Year, was awarded to Adiy Ahmed. Amidst a challenging situation of supporting his best friend, who struggled severely with mental health and attempted suicide, this young man has been a steadfast source of support for his friend and family, playing a pivotal role in his friend’s journey to recovery.
Other winners student Mia Macenzie was presented with the Contribution to the College community . Mia has been a vital part of the chess group in college and quite early on Mia started to help students who had no chess experience by teaching them the rules and playing them until they became competent. She is a natural teacher and incredibly patient with people. Mia has a magical ability to build people’s confidence and bring a smile on their face. Emma Ransome, who collected the Above and Beyond award for her volunteer work with the College drama production, work on open events and volunteering.
QE teacher and Volunteer co-ordinator Nancy Wall said: ‘Every year I think the students can’t do any more to surprise us with their selfless efforts and every year they continue to outdo themselves. It has been an honour to celebrate their volunteering and showcase how brilliant they are.’
