Ayesha Copeland

Ayesha (who is now 18 yearsof age) has overcome disability to take control of her own life. Ayesha overcame her phobia of being around people when she put herself forward for the Youth Opportunity Panel for North Kesteven and Lincoln City. This was a funding panel that read and discussed applications from a various number of youth organisations and young people for grants to imporove their own selves and organisations. Over Ayesha's time on this panel some quarter of a million pounds had been granted to groups and individuals and more were turned down. Ayesha was very much involved in the decision making and grew in stature throughout the 3 and a half years she was part of this programme.'

This has made Ayesha more determined to be a success and from this she has volunteered to work in her local youth centre and children centres where she has supported children and young people with special needs to become more confident and believe in their own self well-being.'

Ayesha was also nominated for the young North Kesteven District champions award (2011) where she came a creditable 2nd place.'

To see Ayesha carry the olympic torch would be an inspirastion for others in the future.'

I whole heartedly recommend Ayesha to your list of perspective nominees for the olympic torch.