A previous guest on Inside Croydon’s regular round-table news panel podcast thingy has been awarded the Paul Harris Fellowship by Rotary International.
It is probably worth pointing out that nine-year-old Naomi Townsend’s success had absolutely nothing to do with her Croydon Insider interview last year about the amazing achievements of the South Croydon schoolgirl’s charity work.
Late night call: nine-year-old Naomi Townsend has had her charity efforts recognised by Rotary International
Townsend’s award is the result of a recommendation from the Rotary Club of Mandeville in Jamaica. Last summer, the then eight-year-old took on an eight-kilometre sponsored run in Ashburton Park to raise funds for the victims of Hurricane Beryl in Jamaica, raising £2,512.
The funds were donated to the Rotary Club of Mandeville, which supported hurricane-affected communities in Manchester and St Elizabeth.
Townsend’s efforts saw her receive a congratulatory message from the Jamaican High Commissioner, Alexander Williams: “Congratulations on your incredible achievement! Running eight kilometres and raising £2,512 is no small feat. Your dedication to supporting the Rotary Club of Mandeville’s efforts in aiding communities affected by Hurricane Beryl in Central Jamaica is truly inspiring.
“You have shown that even at a young age, you can make a significant difference in the lives of others. Your determination and kindness are a shining example to us all and have deeply resonated with many in the diaspora across the United Kingdom.
“Through your act of service, you are keeping alive the Jamaican spirit of community, mutual support, and compassion that is deeply rooted in our culture and history. Keep up the fantastic work Naomi, and may you continue to inspire those around you with your generosity and spirit.”
The Rotary Club prize is the latest in a growing list of accolades Townsend has received for her efforts to give back to her community.
Prestigious award: Naomi Townsend is thought to be the youngest winner of the Paul Harris Fellowship
The prestigious Paul Harris Fellowship is typically given to adults who have significantly contributed to humanitarian efforts.
This latest prize was presented at the Rotary Club of Mandeville’s Vocational Services Awards Ceremony, which Townsend attended virtually, from her home in Croydon.
Due to the five-hour time difference, she stayed up past midnight to receive her honour, delivering an acceptance speech at 1.45am before heading to school later that morning.
Naomi’s father, Lee Townsend, a passionate community leader himself and a regular guest on the Croydon Insider podcast, couldn’t be prouder: “Naomi continues to inspire me with her compassion, confidence and ambition. This recognition is a testament to the impact she is already making.”
Read more: Eight-year-old Naomi ignored a fall to raise £2,365 for charity
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