A Year 9 student at Southgate School in Enfield, part of the Middlesex Learning Trust, has been awarded a trip to Disney World in Orlando, Florida in recognition of his dedicated charity work.
Ryan Aoudjet was nominated for the once-in-a-lifetime trip following his hard work as the youngest ever Vice Chair of the Young People’s Forum for Great Ormond Street Hospital, advocating for young patients and their siblings.
Having been elected by over 70 members of the Forum, Ryan’s work for the group includes leading meetings and helping to design various projects, such as the Children’s Cancer Centre and the Sight and Sound Centre.
Ryan also recently presented to the governors’ group, made up of staff and parents, as well as conducting interviews for the hospital’s staff members including the Chief Financial Officer, Head of Music Therapy and the Chief Operating Officer.
The Disney World trip was coordinated by the charity Dreamflight, whose mission is to provide children with the opportunity to discover independence, confidence, and a whole new outlook on life. Each year, the charity brings just under 200 children for an exciting trip to Disney World.
During the trip, the children are encouraged to grow in their confidence, having been supported by a team of dedicated volunteer doctors, nurses, physiotherapists and other helpers during their 10 day stay.
Following the trip, Ryan Aoudjet said:
“I am so grateful for having been given such a great opportunity – it has really helped to improve my confidence. For example, I enjoyed meeting people who could be taking the same medication as me, and so it was easier to talk and share experiences.”
Martin Lavelle, Headteacher at Southgate School, said:
“Ryan Aoudjet is one of our most inspirational students, showing resilience and determination at all points. This trip is very well deserved, particularly following his hard work advocating for his peers within the Young People’s Forum; he is an extraordinary young person who undoubtedly has a very bright future ahead of him.”
