News Article - 14/12/2009
Student wins London Citizen Student of the Year Award
Abbas Hanif awarded London Citizens Student of the Year 2009
On Tuesday 8th December 2009 Sir George Monoux College Student, Abbas Hanif was awarded London Citizens Student of the Year 2009 at the awards ceremony at St Martin-in-the-Fields in Trafalgar Square. The Vocational Business Student became involved with London Citizens through the College’s Community Cohesion projects and has since joined his fellow students at numerous London Citizens events and campaigns for better financial literacy in schools, City Safe Havens and the Olympic Legacy. This is the second year that Sir George Monoux College has scooped one of London Citizens’ prestigious Awards. Last year the College was selected as New Community of the Year for their role in London Citizens campaigns.
Matthew Bolton, Lead Organiser at London Citizens said, “This award is a testament to the great contributions Abbas has made to London Citizens. Through his enthusiasm, talent and attitude never to let an opportunity pass he has made the most of everything the College and London Citizens have offered. He has excelled in Leadership Training and delivered speeches to crowds of over 2,000 people at our events. Throughout the year Abbas demonstrated his commitment and leadership skills by negotiating with the Lord Mayor, the Olympic Delivery Authority and Waltham Forest Council Leaders. He has also brought other students with him and helped them develop.” Abbas, who is planning to study politics at university said: “I’m just speechless. I couldn’t believe it- I’m ecstatic. This award has given me so much self-belief. It makes me feel like I can aspire to do more. London Citizens is such a great organization; it brings the community together and offers a platform for those in dire need to find a helping hand. I’m so grateful to the staff and teachers at Sir George Monoux College who got me involved in London Citizens. It’s given me some incredible opportunities like speaking at the Barbican recently and addressing my ideas to Mayor Boris Johnson. The atmosphere at the awards was just buzzing and it was so inspiring to see the other award winners.”
Kim Clifford, Principal of Sir George Monoux College added to praise for Abbas saying, "We are absolutely delighted for Abbas. It is wonderful to see our students taking such an active role and having the opportunity to affect change for the whole community. Abbas is such a conscientious student and always makes an effort to be involved with so many of our community projects at the College. We are so proud of him.”
Abbas is also standing as Young MP for Waltham Forest. If elected, he will contribute to local government as a voice for 11-18 year olds in the borough.
