By the Bridge with Cambian are delighted to announce that two of our amazing young people were recently awarded 3rd place in the national finals of the 2019 Coram Voices writing competition.
Frances* from our Midlands region and Jessica* from Eastern, were accompanied to the awards ceremony, held in London, by our Education Advisors and their Foster Parents.
By the Bridge Lead Education Advisor, Tracy Wright, said: "It was a privilege to be part of such an amazing day and to meet such wonderful young people, who were all brave enough to share their journey. As you can imagine, it was very emotional at times but we're so proud of our young people and absolutely over the moon for them!"
Both talented young ladies came 3rd in their age categories after writing heartfelt poems, with the theme for this year's competition being 'Growing up'.
The ceremony was hosted by Doctor Who's Peter Calpadi, and awards were presented by Mr Gee, a poet and radio presenter and Ric Flo, a rapper and care leaver (all pictured above).
Host Peter Capaldi said: "It has been wonderful to see the competition grow and I am knocked out by the talent of those who take part. The experience of care is not a straightforward one and needs greater understanding from all of us. There are few things that illuminate it more than these powerful words, chosen by gifted and resilient young people."
The competition judges included writers, authors, poets and journalists, with a special interest in, or personal experience of the care system, They praised the entrants on the powerful and creative ways they met the competition theme of ‘Growing Up.’
This is Coram Voice’s fourth national writing competition for children in care and young care leavers which was launched in 2016 and is a platform for the voices of children in and around the care system. The competition promotes a positive image by showcasing young people’s creativity and improving understanding of their experience.
Education and Participation Manager, Caroline Hallett, said: "We had 11 entries to this years Coram Competition which nationally had over 450 entries, so our young people have done very well indeed."
Huge congratulations once again to all of our young people who took part in the competition and to our dedicated staff and Foster Parents who continually support them every day.
*Names have been changed
Image credit: Coram Voice
