Kentish Express Ashford & District
Awards recognise positive attitude of young people
Three inspiring youngsters have been presented with awards after overcoming bullying, brain tumours and mental health problems.
The Spirit of Try Angle Awards was held at the Ashford International Hotel and was attended by gold medal-winning winter Paralympic athlete Charlotte Evans as the guest of honour.
It was organised by the Try Angle Foundation, which was set up by Bill Butler in 1994 and is supported by Kent County Council.
In Ashford, three teenagers were the recipients of recognition for their achievements and work, including Luke Prowse, 16, Jordan Savegar, 17, and Jodie East, 16.
Luke Prowse had a brain tumour as a young child and has profound and multiple learning difficulties, but was recognised for his talent in graphic design, where he boasts a “professional and sophisticated” standard of work.
He received an award for personal achievement in the arts, and was highly praised by school teacher Mr Morgan and his fam- ily who are all proud of him.
Jordan Savegar has battled mental health issues, the risk of exploitation and poor school attendance, which had become overwhelming for her and her mum.
But she attended Ashford Youth Hub, and works with the girls club and an outreach group at Goat Lees, where she supports other youngsters with mental health issues.
Jim Winter at Ashford Youth Hub said: “Jordan deserves recognition for her hard work turning her life around and supporting others to do the same. She is an outstanding young lady.”
She was presented with a community action award at the ceremony and was praised for her quiet determination and for being a “natural and positive leader”.
Meanwhile Jodie East received a positive intervention award for her efforts as an early help worker at the Ashford Youth Hub.
She decided to turn her negative experience of bullying at school around, and chose to help others by writing a series of articles on how it affected her and the others around her.
The team says she has also led drama activities at the hub, which has boosted youngsters’ confidence, self-esteem and teamwork.