A schoolgirl who has raised hundreds of pounds to help find a cure for brain tumours has been shortlisted for the Rising Star Awards 2024.
Leia Patel, who, at just eight years old, is far younger than any of the other nominees in the Charity and Not-for-Profits category, has been recognised for her fundraising efforts for several charities over the past three years, which include three Little Mudder races, one of which raised more than £2,500, and two 10km walks.
In her bio for the shortlist, Leia said: “My proudest efforts were when I was tasked by my school to work on an open homework project focussing on the number 140, in celebration of the school`s 140th birthday.
“I decided I wanted to swim 140 lengths, to raise £140 for Brain Tumour Research, in memory of my grandmother who I never got to meet and who passed away at 37 years from the illness. I also wanted to support the charity as my good friend’s dad is undergoing treatment at the moment for his brain tumour.”
Leia completed the swimming challenge last October, raising £550 in memory of her grandmother, Madhumati Ladwa who died in 1999 and inspired by her friend’s father, our Supporter Ambassador Sam Suriakumar.
Leia and her mum, Asha, also took part in a 24-hour kickathon organised by Sam last July for Brain Tumour Research which raised more than £12,500. The Sutton High School pupil is now growing her hair, which she will donate to make wigs for children with cancer.
Voting for the prestigious Rising Star Awards shortlist will close on Monday 20th May and the winners will be announced on Tuesday 28th May.
To cast a vote for Leia visit: https://wearethecity-risingstars.com/
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