By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
A secondary student who brought solar lights to an isolated African village has been named Geelong Volunteer of the Year.
Sarah Kenworthy’s inspiring story, raising $12,000 so she could take 1300 solar lights to Mannya, Uganda, was chronicled in the autumn 2015 Geelong Coast Magazine.
Chair of the Rotary Club of Geelong Youth Committee, Anne Kavenagh, said Sarah was an amazing and humble young woman who deserved to be recognised.
Ms Kavenagh said the South Geelong teen’s volunteerism began with leadership roles at primary and Sacred Heart College.
“Her first ventures into volunteering in Geelong began when, in primary school, she organised a fundraiser for the victims of Black Saturday.
“Sarah helped organise a Make a Difference group at school working to increase awareness of the less fortunate and to raise funds for local causes.
“She organised weekly lunchtime meetings to make blankets for homeless people in Geelong.
“Over the past six years Sarah has volunteered for the Refugee Holiday Event, Christ Church meal program, Cafe Light and St Mary’s Basilica’s Café.
“She has given her time to visit the elderly at nursing homes, sing Christmas Carols at nursing homes, give Christmas hampers to the less fortunate and organised activities at Reclaim the Night, Young Vinnies, Geelong Hospital and Leopold Carols by Candlelight.”
Ms Kavenagh said Sarah took on a “relentless” speaking program visiting schools, churches and community organisations to raise awareness of the needs in Uganda.
“Because Sarah is such a passionate, selfless advocate, her commitment volunteering has inspired many young Geelong residents to also become volunteers.
“Despite being diagnosed with coeliac disease, Sarah is selflessly committed to community service and social justice.
“Her efforts have led her to realise that she wishes to study medicine and to work with the underprivileged.”
