TWENTY FOUR inspirational youngsters from across the UK were delighted to be
announced as medallists for this year’s British Citizen Youth Award (BCyA) in recognition of
their extraordinary contribution to society, charities and good causes.
Phoebe Maddison from Swindon was one of the children honoured for their incredible efforts at a formal presentation held at the Palace of Westminster on Thursday 19 October.
Now in its second year, the BCyA, in association with Specsavers, seeks to highlight the
many acts of bravery, kindness and compassion carried out by young people across the UK.
Incredible stories
At 13 years of age, Phoebe is an inspiration to everyone living with Type 1 diabetes. Since
her diagnosis at the age of four, she has been determined to support Diabetes UK and
Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDFR) through raising funds and awareness.
When Phoebe was seven-years- old, she made a short educational film that was
commissioned by the BBC called ‘Same But Different’ which is available to watch online.
She then created a short film using her iPad where she interviewed teachers and children
about diabetes. This was shown widely in the UK and she won a BAFTA award for best
individual film.
On Phoebe’s 11th birthday, she held a party and invited her entire class, but rather than
receiving gifts, she asked friends and students to make donations to Diabetes UK and raised hundreds of pounds. After recently meeting the Prime Minister, who also has Type 1
diabetes, at Diabetes UK Headquarters in London, Phoebe sees her as an inspiration.
With a passion for performing, from the age of six, Phoebe has sung every year at a
diabetes charity ball in Bournemouth. She has also recorded a charity single called ‘I’m a
hero’.
For Phoebe, it is a priority is to ensure that people can recognise signs of the disease and
promote awareness of Type 1 diabetes. She is determined to not only help find a cure, but to demonstrate to young people a willingness to succeed and not see their health condition as a barrier in life.
Medallist
Phoebe Maddison received her BCyA medal from Ashley Banjo, creative director and lead
dancer of Diversity, whose dance troupe won the third series of Britain’s Got Talent.
Ashley says: ‘I am honoured to have been able to play a part in the British Citizen Youth
Awards at the Palace of Westminster. What a fantastic way to recognise these young
people that have made a difference to their communities up and down the UK. These
inspirational young people are making a difference and encouraging others to do the same.’
David Grieves, store director of Specsavers Swindon says: ‘As a partner of the BCyA, it is
always uplifting to hear about the amazing and selfless acts performed by youngsters both
within our community and across the UK.
‘Whether it be raising money for charity or helping those in need, we want to grow
awareness of these achievements and inspire the next generation of children to make a
similar positive impact on society.’
