Rebel to role model pupil

But with the support of her teachers she turned her life around and is now using her experience to help others. She said: "My attitude changed and I saw I could give other kids advice and they would listen because it was coming from one of their peers."
She was nominated for the award by PE teacher Amanda Edwards, who said: "Kesia has been visiting us in the inclusion unit since we began two years ago.
"She has had her own personal battles to contend with and has at times needed a place to vent and work through the challenges. Kesia has shown students in the unit it is never too late to turn things around. She is inspiring to those experiencing similar problems. "
Kesia began to mentor fellow students and in her free periods led lessons including PE, coaching girls' football, and is a school Sports Ambassador.
One of the classes in which she helps out is'Learn2Learn' where she talks to de-motivated students on an equal level.
She has also adopted charity Amnesty International and through being involved with it, was invited to the Foreign Office in June with a delegation and a petition against the arms trade which she helped to collect.
Kesia opened the event and as an ice-breaker persuaded MPs, diplomats and senior civil servants to do warm-up exercises.
She is now applying to universities to do a sports degree and then hopes to complete teacher training.
She added her YOPEY nomination made her feel very proud. She said: "I have had my problems and now want to give something back. And I hope it reflects back on the school."
Do you know a young person who goes that extra mile to help others and deserves recognition and the chance to win a cash prize? To nominate go to www.yopey.org or write to Young People of the Year, PO Box 103, Hare Street, Ware, SG9 OXD, enclosing an SAE, for an entry form. Nominees must be aged between 10-25, and live, study, or work in Bucks. The competition closes on Sunday (8/11).