Student George shortlisted for autism award

A National Star student has received national recognition for his outstanding work within the autism community. 

Student George has been nominated for the Personal Development Award at the Anna Kennedy Autism Hero Awards, in recognition of his incredible commitment to personal growth, fundraising and advocacy. 

George’s nomination highlights his determination to make a difference. He has raised over £2,000 for charity, taken on running challenges to support his mental health, and is actively raising awareness of mental health among people with disabilities.

What being nominated means to George

When asked what being shortlisted means to him, George, who is a day student based at Ullenwood, said he is “proud and happy.” 

Looking ahead to the awards final in London, George shared his excitement: ‘meeting new people and get more followers on TikTok, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube to help more people with a disability do things. I am also looking forward to the food and I am excited to go to London.’ 

George, a student on the Personal Development for Positive Contribution pathway, also recognised the support he has received along the way. When asked if anyone had helped him, he said:  
‘Pam, my emotional wellbeing support, who practised with me when we did the 5k run and everyone who has helped support me at National Star.’

George’s journey

His mum Kerry reflected on the journey that has led to this moment:

‘All George’s life he’s been a fighter because education and health kept letting him down from an early age. He missed out on five years of education because no one could meet his needs, which we now know was autistic burnout. When he finally got the help he needed and a place at National Star College, with their help and support, he’s been thriving and reaching for the stars ever since.’ 

‘Over the past 18 months he’s gone from strength to strength. He can now advocate for himself, he’s taken up running with the help of his emotional wellbeing support Pam and has raised over £2,000 for charity – and that’s still growing. He’s so focused and now wants to help other people with mental health so they don’t go through what he went through. He’s started a YouTube and TikTok channel to promote this and show that you should never give up. He is a true inspiration.’

Lynette Barrett, Chief Executive of National Star, said: ‘George is such an incredible ambassador for National Star and this is such a fantastic achievement. His commitment to raising funds for charity, and his continued efforts to raise awareness is an inspiration to others and we wish him the best of luck.” 

Finalists were reviewed by a distinguished panel of celebrity judges, authors, presenters, ambassadors and supporters of Anna Kennedy Online – all bringing professional insight, lived experience and a shared passion for championing the autism community. 

The awards evening will take place in London on Saturday 9 May.