AN Annandale teenager is being flagged as ‘one to watch’.
Elsie Ong, 13, is featured on this year’s 30 Under 30 list, compiled by The Young Women’s Movement, Scotland’s national organisation for young women’s leadership and rights.
It highlights girls and young women who are leading change and excelling in their fields.
And Elsie, who attends Lockerbie Academy, has been celebrated for her campaigning and voluntary work through Girlguiding and within her school. Among her achievements, she has set up a ‘uniform bank’ to help local families, helped her school to become a UNICEF Silver Rights Respecting School as part of their Rights Respecting steering group, and currently serves as a young advisor to the Children and Young People’s Commissioner for Scotland where she advocates for children’s rights.
Reacting to the accolade, the teen said: “I was very surprised to hear the exciting news that I was to be on the 30 under 30 2024 list. I feel very lucky to be recognised in this way as I just try my best to help my community in any way I can. I feel driven by the thoughts of helping other people and making a positive impact wherever I go, in whatever I am doing.”
Proud parents Nick and Libby added: “We are beyond proud of Elsie. She is a kind and thoughtful young woman, always trying her best to help others. Truly deserving of her spot on the list.
“Well done to Elsie, and all on this year’s list. You are all true change-makers!”
Meanwhile, Jenni Snell, CEO of The Young Women’s Movement, said: “It’s a privilege to celebrate these inspiring and tenacious young women and girls, who are creating change in their communities, lives and across society in myriad ways.”
