Civil servant wins top award

A delegate from the Civil Service won the title England and Wales Young Thinker of the Year in Lancaster last week (10-13 September 2024). The adjudicator commented: 'Well-written with panache, this paper on assisted dying was strengthened by the use of excellent testimony – it provided a much-needed human dimension. Packed full of relevant facts and pertinent research, this was a mature piece of writing. She did well to navigate through such an emotional and personal subject. She was an understated but dignified presenter, and any nerves dissipated throughout the presentation'.

The runner-up award went to Chris Hughes of The British Academy for an assured paper soaring through the strange world of aviation and lack of fuel tax. Two highly commended awards were given to Tuisku (Snow) Curtis Kolu, also of The British Academy, and Diane Takpimivbiomo of Homes England for papers on the power of hobbies and breast cancer awareness, respectively.

The winning group in the Group Challenge were Group B (Sahar Faqiri, Home Office; Alex Lindsay, Home Office; Martha Makin, Ofsted; Anna Monro, The British Academy). Their presentation on the concept of 'freedom' showed great team work and explored the concept thoroughly.

A special award for best 90-Second Challenge went to a delegate from the Civil Service, who asked: 'Have I made myself proud?' She shared with us her search for pride in herself with honesty. It was refreshing, open, and delivered with grace.

Thank you to all delegates for being part of such a warm and supportive group.

Our next Young England and Wales Programme will be held in Lancaster at the end of April 2025! To book now, please see upcoming events.