SELFLESS SHERFORD SIBLINGS LEAD YOUTH AWARDS
Plymouth’s most inspiring young people have been celebrated at an awards ceremony – including two incredible children from Sherford. The Sherford Consortium has reached out to congratulate the pair and reward their hard work.
The YMCA Plymouth Youth Awards spanned 16 categories, recognising young people from across the city who are making a positive impact in their communities. Sherford’s very own Toby Edgeler won the Young Fundraiser of the Year award, while his sister Isabelle Edgeler was a finalist for Entrepreneur of the Year.
An exceptional example of the community spirit that Sherford has, both Isabelle and Toby have gone out of their way to help those in need, raise funds for charity, and boost awareness of important issues.
The young pair have achieved a great deal in the face of adversity. Isabelle and Toby’s father was a soldier who sadly took his own life after battling with PTSD. Despite the trauma they experienced, these remarkable youngsters have sought ways to help and bring hope to others.
Rachael Edgeler – Toby and Isabelle’s mum – said of the awards, “What an amazing celebration of the amazing young people we have in the city. So proud of my son Toby for winning Young Fundraiser of the Year and of his sister Isabelle who was a finalist in Entrepreneur of the Year.
“They both inspire me every day with their selfless attitude, compassion for others, their resilience, drive and determination whilst both still grieving the loss of their dad.”
Toby’s story
In the wake of losing his dad, Toby was supported by local charity, Jeremiah’s Journey, which specialises in helping children and families with bereavement.
Toby, who is now 10 years old, described his experience with the charity in this incredibly powerful video. He appeared in this film to help raise awareness of the charity.
He has gone on to become an official ambassador for the charity, raising vital awareness and much-needed funds for Jeremiah’s Journey.
Isabelle’s story
When the Syrian earthquake struck, Isabelle was moved to take action and fundraise for the Red Cross appeal.
Sacrificing her school holidays, Isabelle – who was only 7 at the time she began – handcrafted hundreds of bracelets. She set up a stall outside her home in Sherford to raise money, braving all weathers.
The community stepped up and supported her. Through the Sherford community Facebook page, Isabelle attracted buyers for her bracelets and raised £232 for the appeal.
Thank you
In recognition of the kindness, generosity and community spirit the siblings have shown, the Sherford Consortium is keen to give something back in return.
The Sherford Consortium will match the funds Isabelle has raised, donating £232 to the same charity appeal – bolstering the amount Isabelle impressively raised all on her own.
In addition, the pair have been invited to be the first to play on the new pitches at Sherford when they open this summer.
Finally, as a gesture of appreciation for these two special children, they have been gifted vouchers to treat themselves – a thank you for all they have done to give to others.
