Jane Goodall’s Roots & Shoots Annual Awards UK 2016

Roots & Shoots UK welcomed Dr Jane Goodall for the 9th annual Roots & Shoots Awards; a celebration of the amazing achievements Roots & Shoots groups across the country have produced through their projects, and a chance to recognise those groups and individuals who have made an extraordinary contribution to helping people, animals and the environment.Held at the Zoological Society of London, one of our partners; who undertake important work around the world researching conservation and biodiversity. Roots & Shoots UK Groups

The AwardsThe second part of the evening was focussed around the awards ceremony itself, with an inspiring talk from Dr Goodall, music from Besureis and a Fashion Show displaying garments made from recycled or upcycled materials. Roots & Shoots UK Most Outstanding GroupSponsored by the RSPCAThis was won by the James Allen’s Prep School for their work raising money for people affected by the earthquake in Nepal. With some savvy and creative fundraising ideas, such as selling wristbands and making packed lunches for class outings, they raised an incredible £22,000 in just two months. Inspirational!Roots & Shoots UK Most Outstanding PhotographSponsored by National Geographic Kids MagazineThis prize rewards artistic skill and creativity when it comes to highlighting the beauty of nature. The prize was deservedly won by Chris Hare of SEEVIC College for his picture ‘Mare in the Mist’. Roots & Shoots UK Most Outstanding IndividualSponsored by Quest Overseas17 year old Isabella Harford of TASIS was this year's recipient, in recognition for her work over the year with Roots & Shoots, and in particular her project with the Romanian relief programme.Trashion Show‘Make, Do and Trend’ - a fashion show with a difference from St Christopher's School. All the garments on show were designed and made by the students, and all are constructed from recycled or upcycled material. Each was eye catching in its own unique way, but the overall winner, chosen by ethical clothing company People Tree, was Felicity with Burberry Brilliance. Hope for the Future“My feeling is if we can get to a critical mass of people who share the Roots & Shoots philosophy, then we will start to see the kind of world we are happy for our children to grow up in.” she commented. “You can’t go through a day without having some kind of impact, and you get to choose the impact you have.”She reminded Roots & Shoots UK that we are part of a global family of Roots & Shoots that wherever we go in the world, we will find others like us who care for the planet, want to make a difference, and have the power to do so.

Tara Golshan, Executive Director commented “ This year saw the most inspiring and extraordinary projects from our young members.  It demonstrates their responsibility, commitment and dedication. They are truly an example to society both across the UK and around the Globe as to how to make a positive contribution to our planet, and a testament to the fact that achievement and triumph over challenge can be achieved and celebrated.”