At the Y, we believe in the power of inspired young people and the Y Inspired Young Person Award acknowledges a child from one of our OSHC services who aspires, has reached achievements and most importantly, inspires!
This year, the winner of the Y Inspired Young Person Award is Year 3 student, Sophie Haswell, from the Y Mosman Park OSHC.
Nominated by OSHC Supervisor Steevie Higginbotham, Sophie is quite a remarkable young person – having taken it upon herself to learn Auslan (Australian sign language), to be inclusive, and make friends with the children from the adjoining Deaf school who attend the OSHC service.
“Sophie does her best to talk to the hard of hearing children, and she can already finger spell and understand some signs,” Steevie explained in the nomination.
There were several great nominations, but Sophie was chosen as the clear winner by the panel of judges – consisting of new CEO Dr Tim McDonald, Board Member Eva Lin, Executive Manager – Service Delivery Shane Mauger and Acting General Manager - Children’s Services, Amanda Lucas.
“What Sophie has done is selfless and other-centred. By taking the time to learn sign language, she clearly demonstrates the values of the Y, proving she is very respectful and caring towards others,” Tim explained.
Tim travelled to the OSHC at Mosman Park Primary School on Monday 31 August, and presented Sophie with a certificate and a $100 Smiggle gift voucher at a ceremony in front of Sophie’s mum Emily Haswell, Steevie, and the other children.
“Sophie has such a big kind heart, and we’re super proud of her for receiving this award. It’s fantastic that the Y has recognised her for showing values that are so important, but not usually acknowledged,” Sophie’s mum, Emily confirmed.
“Sophie was really proud and surprised when she found out she was the overall winner. She said it’s really cool that Auslan is its own language, and you can talk to other people like it’s a secret spy code.”
“I learned sign language to play with my Deaf friends, I’m so happy that I’m getting better at talking to them in their language,” Sophie exclaimed.