‘Heroic’ stabbing victim honoured in Lyrico’s name
TRAGIC TEENAGER’S MUM SELECTS AKIL FOR NEW AWARD
THE survivor of a “horrific” violent attack has won an award named after murder victim Lyrico Steede after being personally selected by Lyrico’s mum for his “heroic character”.
Akil Johnson-richards knew Lyrico – the Bulwell teenager killed by a gang in 2018 – and was stabbed in Nottingham last year.
He has been hailed as an inspiration who fully deserves the Lyrico Steede Award by those who nominated him.
Akil was surprised by the award – which Lyrico’s mother said is meant to honour those with “heroic” characters who shun violence and gang culture – on his 22nd birthday.
He teaches young people how to cook, provides meals for vulnerable people, and gives surplus food packages to low-income households.
He works with a project called International Flavours, part of a social enterprise Akil founded called Go Vision.
Akil said: “I felt overwhelmed to have won the award as I knew Lyrico personally and I’m sure he’s proud of my achievements and aspirations.
“I was inspired (to become a chef ) after seeing people who do not have adequate access to food.
“I wanted to cook meals for people to show them they don’t have to limit themselves on their quality of dietary choices. “I’m very creative and like to explore with food and flavours.
“It helps to know I’m supporting others in their time of need.”
Akil has also shared advice for people who may be struggling or have gone down a dangerous path.
He said: “My message to young people is for them to focus on their futures and positive outcomes but I appreciate that is easier said than done.
“I’d also recommend people look to change their group of friends if they are a bad influence on them but, again, that is easier than it sounds.”
He added: “I would like to give thanks to Keishaye Steede, Lyrico’s mum, for choosing me to win this award. This gives me motivation and willpower to do better in life. It really is an honour.”
Keishaye said: “I decided to choose Akil because I see beautiful potential.
“He could’ve decided to go down a dark path, but instead he chose light.
“That is how I always saw my son Lyrico Steede.
“So in his honour I am blessed to have the opportunity to stand by and witness Akil exemplify such great, heroic character.
“God bless young man, keep up the good work.”
Nottinghamshire Police launched the Live Our Best Life Awards programme as part of Stephen Lawrence Day on April 22, with six categories open for prospective nominees.
Akil was nominated for the Lyrico Steede Award by his friend and mentor Dominique Carver-smith, who said: “Akil has never used what happened to him as an excuse to retaliate and nor has it deterred him from achieving his life goals.
“He deserves this award as he is actively encouraging young people who are living in deprived communities and may have been involved in criminal pasts to increase their career aspirations and develop new skills.”
Youth outreach worker Romel Davis masterminded the Live Our Best Life Awards and has praised Akil for the work he’s done.
He said: “Akil is an incredible person. He went through an horrific ordeal last year but he has not allowed that to stop him inspiring others to raise their aspirations and learn new skills. He fully deserves this recognition.”