His Majesty The King pays tribute to Prince’s Trust winner Pride of Britain Awards.
His Majesty The King has paid tribute to Royal Air Force aviator Air Specialist 1 Alex Anderson, at this year’s Pride of Britain Awards.
The special message from His Majesty The King was read out by actor Idris Elba on stage, as he presented Alex with the Prince’s Trust Young Achiever award.
His Majesty The King wrote:
I particularly wanted to send my warmest congratulations to Alex on being this year’s Pride of Britain Prince’s Trust award winner. His is an inspirational story of triumph over adversity that shows how tenacity, courage and hard work can make even the most impossible dream come true. That he has done so in the face of so many obstacles is all the more commendable. I am enormously proud of the part the Prince’s Trust has played in helping him achieve his ambition to serve our nation, and so impressed to hear how he is now assisting others in the community, both young and old. The volunteer spirit he so wonderfully exemplifies is one that I know many, many others in this room this evening share. I am full of admiration for you all and congratulate each one of this year’s winners on their extraordinary achievements. You are truly the Pride of Britain.
His Majesty The King
Alex, a Logistics Supplier at RAF Odiham, is one of the first adults with Asperger’s Syndrome to secure a role in the Royal Air Force – a huge achievement, and a dream come true. With support from The Prince’s Trust, Alex was able to build his confidence and employability skills, enabling him to embark on his new career.
I was diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome when I was nine years old. It impacted my school life, it was challenging and really affected my health and wellbeing. I struggled with everyday situations both at home and at school. Before my diagnosis, I moved around four different schools due to my behaviour. I ran away from school too, just to remove myself from situations I couldn’t deal with. It was really unsettling for me and my family.
Air Specialist 1 Alex Anderson
Logistics Supplier
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Alex has done over one thousand hours of volunteering. This includes supporting veterans and the elderly to provide a befriending service. Alex promised one veteran that once he got into the RAF he would go back in his blues uniform – a promise he kept, which was very moving for the veteran.
I’m really pleased. I’ve had so many knock backs. The Prince’s Trust Award will remind me how far I’ve come and how the support I received got me through a difficult time and ultimately helped me to achieve my dream. I’d recommend The Trust to any young person who is looking to secure work – no matter their background or the struggles they have had in the past. They can help.
Air Specialist 1 Alex Anderson
Logistics Supplier
The Pride of Britain Awards will air on ITV on Thursday 27 October at 8pm.
