It's official.
ShoePal #1 has won an award from the state of South Australia for his part in shoe collection.
Today, as part of Children's Week, he received the Youth Award for "outstanding and consistent contributions to the needs, interests and welfare of children", "in recognition of the discovery that listening followed by action can bring shoes for the children of the world".
His whole family was invited to Government House, along with Virginia (who sadly could not attend), "Auntie Susie" (who happily DID attend), his school principal (Denise Scala), and his house leader (Mr P). Back months ago, Mr P had written an article for the South Australian Anglican Church newsletter. A lady who saw it, even though she didn't know ShoePal #1, contacted the school to seek parental permission to nominate him for his efforts. And what would you know. He won the award. This lovely lady was also present at the award ceremony today.
Speaking with ShoePal #1 the night before the event, we discussed who else was involved in the success of the project, and who else was involved in him having the opportunity to win the award, and it was delightful to hear him list off so many many people with ease. It truly has been a group effort, and whilst we're thrilled for ShoePal #1 and this acknowledgement of the Award, we are also proud that he realises that so many people were involved in the jigsaw which led to his nomination and receipt of the Award. So, on behalf of ShoePal #1, thank you to all who contributed to the success of the project, and his successful nomination for the Youth Award.
Finally, how wonderful that his school and government recognise the positive power which can be grown in young people when they are encouraged, supported, and affirmed for positive actions and behaviours which can change the world.
Absolutely, and indeed ShoePal #1 has made small steps, following big dreams, to achieve giant feats. Congratulations Precious. From Mummy and Daddy.
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Congratulations again from Virginia, Malawi.
ReplyDeleteI sent news to the village and they have received it with ululations, drums, hands clapping and whistling. The village is so excited that the Government has awarded the little boy. Of course they cant wait for the shoes, they feel like everything is a dream.
Am so overwhelmed with this great feat, thanks to the Australian Government for recognising small steps everyone even children are taking towards the promotion of social justice.
'I am because you are ( African Proverb), what affects a child in Makuluni has affected this gorgeous boy Josiah and he din't remain silent.I hope many will learn from this pint-sized-but-great-minded-Josiah.
Once again, congratulations Shoe-Pal#1.
Hugs.
Honestly speaking Shoe-Pal is a genius who, fortunately, happened to have supportive and encouraging parents and friends. This whole project has been a miracle. Some of us wonder how that is possible, that a young person can conceive an idea and get such huge support from parents and colleagues to the extent that it becomes a big success as this project has been. The recognition from the school and the government is so befitting and well deserved. I pray that next time these supportive parents all who were involved in chimwemwe footprints project should also get some recognition. Suzanne and all the other colleagues have shown wonderful compassion and zeal all for the sake of humanity.
ReplyDeleteSuzanne, Shoe-pal, Virginia and all the other colleagues who participated in this, you are a source of pride to many of us.
Cheers!!!!!
Wiskes, Canberra.