AN incredible 92 young people from schools and clubs across Ealing came together to receive prestigious Jack Petchey Foundation Achievement Awards at the Greenford Assembly Hall yesterday.

The event honoured Achievement Award winners aged 11-25 who received medallions to go with their framed certificate and a cheque for £250 each, already presented, on Wednesday, February 1.

They were nominated by their peers and leaders, winning awards for a variety of achievements big and small but always for doing their best.

In addition, five adults were also celebrated with Leader Awards who have demonstrated, in an outstanding way, an ability to motivate young people. They received a medallion and a framed certificate.

Youth organisations and schools in Ealing have received funding of £620,000 from the Jack Petchey Foundation since funding started in 2006.

The Mayor of Ealing Cllr Dr Patricia Walker, who gave out awards on the night, said it was: “Another wonderful evening at the Jack Petchey Foundation awards.

“The Borough of Ealing is so proud of our wonderful students and their teachers. The loving support of their parents is fantastic, and we also owe them so much.”

Winners included 13-year-old Liana Yara of Cardinal Wiseman School.

Liana is budding footballer and has already represented England and Arsenal in Girls Football for several months.

Her school said she has shown high levels of commitment in all extra-curricular activities for the school competing many years above her age group. 

Rukaya Chaudhary, 13, goes to Featherstone High School and has been working with their E-Safety Committee to raise awareness about cyber-bullying and has gone into primary schools to deliver assemblies on this topic, as well as doing so in her own school.

In other areas of school, she is incredibly hard working and has taken part in school musicals, dance and music clubs.

She attends homework club in the mornings and has been recognised for completing some outstanding pieces of work.

Kathryn Welhenage, aged 12, is a member of Celtic Football Club based in Ealing and her club commended her for her commitment during training.

Kathryn was a trail blazer being among the first girls at the club and still has the enthusiasm and willingness to learn.

She cycles to training every week from Northolt and although she is an outfield player, she also stays behind for goalkeeper training and has become a very good keeper too.