The Island’s young stars were celebrated at Tapnell Farm earlier this month as the Child of Wight Awards 2025, sponsored by WightFibre, returned for another emotional and inspiring evening.
Now in its 10th year, the awards – held on 5th September – once again highlighted the courage, talent and selflessness of young people from across the Isle of Wight.
The Overall Child of Wight Award 2025 was presented to Ffion Harrison, who has faced years of serious health challenges and 2 kidney transplants with courage, humour and positivity.
Ffion’s story moved the audience, with her resilience and determination praised by judges. Despite lengthy hospital stays, countless treatments and the life-changing reality of transplant surgery, she continues to inspire family, friends and everyone who meets her by staying positive and supporting those around her.
On stage, Ffion received a standing ovation as her strength and spirit were celebrated.
Event hosts Paul Topping and Emily Wells described her as “the embodiment of what the Child of Wight Awards are all about” – demonstrating how courage, kindness and hope can shine through even in the face of incredible adversity.
The winners were…
- Young Conservationist (sponsored by The Wildheart Animal Sanctuary): Summer Jeffries – for her passion in protecting the environment, from joining beach cleans to writing to her MP.
- Fundraiser of the Year (sponsored by Red Funnel): Kenzie Osman – who raised over £600 for Daisy Chains by selling handmade bracelets, even shipping them abroad.
- Best Friend Award (sponsored by Glanvilles Damant): Toby Smith and George Scully Syer – whose friendship, loyalty and support for each other have been an inspiration since primary school.
- Best Performer (sponsored by HTP Apprenticeship College): Jemima Sunderland – a gifted singer, songwriter and musician who wowed audiences at the Cowes Fringe.
- Best Sibling (sponsored by ICR Touch): The Smith siblings: Sidney, Emily-Rose, Florence and Rex – recognised for their strength and unity in supporting their brother Rex through serious health challenges.
- Young Achiever (sponsored by Phoenix Care Group): Alice Critchison – a 12-year-old endurance rider who has won national recognition alongside her pony, Ashley Kate.
- Sporting Star (sponsored by Education Destination): Willow Frankling – a rising footballer who plays for mainland and Island teams, volunteers as a coach, and also shines at cricket)
- Courageous Child (supported by Wightlink, in memory of Asa Singleton): Harry Greenen-Bell – who is undergoing treatment for a rare cancer with incredible bravery and determination.
- Make a Difference Award (sponsored by D & S Carpets): Jamie Robinson (DJ Jamroki) – who raised funds for The Youth Trust with a 1,001-minute DJ set and continues to inspire young Islanders. Make a Difference award was collected by Jamie’s brother, Davi
- Young Carer (sponsored by Horsler Lifts): Ruby Boudewijn – who helps care for her mum while balancing school and personal challenges with compassion and strength.
John Irvine, Chief Executive of headline sponsors Wightfibre, said:
“WightFibre are incredibly proud to be sponsoring the Isle of Wight Radio Child of Wight Awards for the tenth year.
Article continues below this advertisement “This event shines a light on the courage, kindness, and resilience of young people across our community, and it’s an honour to help celebrate their stories.
“Supporting these awards is more than a tradition for us — it’s a reflection of our commitment to the Island and the inspiring children who make it such a special place”.
Isle of Wight Radio Managing Director, Claire John, added:
“The Isle of Wight Radio Child of Wight Awards is always such an incredible event, celebrating the talent, strength, courage and accomplishments of young people here on the island.
“Their stories are an inspiration to us all. I’d like to thank all of our sponsors, especially our Wightfibre who have been headline sponsor for ten years and have played a huge part in the success of the awards.”
