Northumberland College veterinary nursing student Molly Mackings’ compassion and dedication has been honoured at the Sunderland Young Achievers’ Awards.
As well as winning the Young Carer category, Molly, 17, was named overall winner at a glittering ceremony held at Rainton Meadows in March.
From being a carer for both her mum who battles Multiple Sclerosis, her brother and another family with disabilities, Molly still manages to make the daily, hour-long taxi journey to college where she studies to become a Veterinary Nurse. Alongside mum, Tara, Molly played a pivotal role in the foundation of Tailored Leisure Co. which is a not-for-profit organisation making physical fitness and mental health wellbeing inclusive for all.
Her endeavours have helped create pathways for families with disabilities to access improved health opportunities and foster a community where everyone, regardless of ability, can thrive.
Molly’s story is not just one of volunteerism; it is a narrative of empowerment, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of making the world a more inclusive and compassionate place for all. As a carer for her mum who has Multiple Sclerosis, her brother and another family member with disabilities Molly shows compassion, dedication and kindness on a daily basis and strives for inclusivity and empowerment.
Commenting on Molly’s award, mum Tara said: “I am incredibly proud of all Molly has achieved. She also supports her younger brother Jack, 14, who is autistic, whilst studying full-time to be a veterinary nurse at Northumberland College, which is an hour away from home.
“From being young, she has always been so passionate about putting others first, even in secondary school she collected winter coats for the homeless.
“I am incredibly proud of Molly and the young woman she has become, because without her I could not be me. To have her beside me helping other families who need support fills my heart with so much pride as her mother.”
The Sunderland Young Achievers Awards celebrate the achievements of children and young people aged eight to 18 or up to 25 with a special educational need or disability (SEND), recognising their bravery, talent and positive contributions to their communities.
The awards are open to individuals or groups living in Sunderland, Washington, Houghton and Hetton. This year the award categories have been revamped with categories including Arts and Culture, Health and Wellbeing, Local Community, Environmental Champion, Youth Voice and Personal Growth Awards.
This years’ Sunderland Young Achievers’ Award 2024 took place on Friday 15th March 2024 at the Rainton Meadows Arena.
We are the largest further education provider in Northumberland with campuses throughout the county.
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