#iwill – innovative youth mentoring projects
837. Ray Wang
Ray Wang, aged 19, from Suffolk, has used his position as Chairman of ‘Waveney Youth Council’ to create an innovative and supportive youth project.
Understanding the difficulties for primary school pupils moving to secondary school, Ray led the development and delivery of the nationally recognised ‘Transition Ambassador Project’ to provide peer-mentoring support, with over 200 students trained across his local district. Ray also volunteers as Board Member for ‘East Suffolk Partnership’ of local authorities, overseeing a £50,000 fund for youth activities in areas of deprivation. His volunteering has been vital in developing community cohesion and empowering young people. Ray is an ambassador for the #iwill campaign.
In a personal letter to Ray, Prime Minister Theresa May said:
“As Chairman of the ‘Waveney Youth Council’ you led the development of an inspiring and innovative youth project to provide peer-mentoring support to primary school pupils who are starting the transition to secondary school. I wish you every success sharing this experience in your role as an #iwill ambassador.”
Ray said:
“I am deeply honoured and thrilled to receive this award, both as an affirmation for past endeavours and an inspiration for the future. Although an unexpected accolade, it has been a reminder that all of the hard work, time and effort has been completely worth it. I have to thank colleagues, friends and peers for their invaluable support over the past five years as we worked hard to drive forward meaningful youth social action which empowers young people to deliver tangible outcomes and real change in Waveney and East Suffolk.”