2024-08-02
In a remarkable display of youthful achievement and relentless determination, 12-year-old Maryam Jazeem has been named a finalist for the prestigious SHEro National Award at the She Inspires Awards 2024. Standing shoulder-to-shoulder with some of the most accomplished women in the United Kingdom, including OBE and MBE honorees, Maryam’s inclusion in this distinguished list underscores the profound impact she has made at such a tender age.
A Remarkable Journey
Born in the UK to Sri Lankan parents and raised by her single father from the age of four, Maryam Jazeem has already amassed an impressive array of accolades and accomplishments. Her journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Maryam is a multi-award-winning Quran reciter, public speaker, social activist, and kidpreneur, who has been making waves across various domains. She is also the youngest ambassador for the #IWill Movement initiated by King Charles III.
Championing Advocacy and Change
Maryam’s advocacy work, particularly her campaign for International Muslim History Month, has been instrumental in challenging stereotypes and promoting interfaith dialogue. During the COVID-19 lockdown, she excelled academically while being homeschooled and won numerous awards, including the title of ‘Best Quran Reciter’ in the UK.
Her activism transcends religious boundaries. At just 7, her impactful letter to former Prime Minister Boris Johnson challenging his Brexit policy garnered notable attention and a surprising response from him, showcasing her early engagement with political issues. At 8, she received the Verbal Commendation Award at an international Model United Nations conference, highlighting her eloquence and leadership.
Recognized for Excellence
Maryam’s relentless pursuit of excellence and justice has not gone unnoticed. She made history as the first child to win the Baton Award in 2023, competing against adult finalists including authors and barristers. She also won the prestigious Children’s Award for Excellence in 2023 by The Muslim News for her outstanding achievements in multiple disciplines.
In May 2024, she was the sole child finalist in the Young Achiever category at the British Muslim Awards, once again competing against distinguished adults. Her innovative approach to integrating Quranic recitation with STEM principles earned her the MK STEM Award 2024, making her the world’s first child to achieve such an honour. Maryam’s motivational content on social media has garnered significant attention, including recognition from King Charles III and Queen Camilla for her tribute following Queen Elizabeth II’s passing.
Impacting Lives and Policies
One of her most impactful campaigns addressed the controversial policy in Sri Lanka that mandated cremation for all COVID-19 victims, regardless of religion. This policy directly contradicted World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines and caused immense distress for the Muslim community in Sri Lanka, who traditionally bury their dead. Maryam’s advocacy efforts, along with those of others, played a crucial role in raising awareness about the issue. Just last week, on July 23rd, 2024, the Sri Lankan government formally apologised to its Muslim minority for the forced cremations and pledged to uphold the right to burial or cremation based on religious beliefs. This apology is a significant victory for human rights and a testament to the power of young voices like Maryam’s.
Maryam’s activism surrounding this issue exemplifies her dedication to human rights and her ability to make a difference on a global scale. Additionally, her petition in Parliament against the ban on prayer rituals at Michaela Community School garnered over 8,000 signatures within four weeks of launching. The petition was closed early because of the General Election held on July 4th, showcasing her ability to mobilise support for religious freedom.
Her academic achievements are equally impressive. She achieved the highest possible standard in all four SATs subjects, placing her among the top achievers in the UK.
A Beacon of Inspiration
Maryam’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact young individuals can have on the world. Her tireless efforts continue to inspire people of all ages, making her a deserving finalist for the SHEro National Award. Her inclusion alongside OBE and MBE honorees from the large number of nominations received nationally highlights her extraordinary contributions and the limitless potential of youth.
SHEro Award and SheInspires Background
The SHEro Award, part of the SheInspires Awards founded by Gulnaz Brennan, honours women who inspire through their courage, achievements, and positive contributions to their communities. Maryam’s inclusion in this category reflects her exceptional role as a symbol of hope and inspiration.
The SheInspires Awards, celebrating its 10th year, recognize the extraordinary power and impact of women globally. With a presence in 27 countries, the awards honour women’s social and economic contributions, showcasing stories of triumph, kindness, and transformation. The awards aim to empower and inspire future leaders by highlighting the achievements of remarkable women.
Final Judgement and Award Ceremony
As part of the final awarding process, Maryam will undergo a judging session with fellow nominees, including Catherine Sandland, Sally Orange MBE, Belynder Walia, and Paula McGowan OBE. This session is set for 21st August 2024, where she will face a distinguished panel of judges in a Q&A session.
The SHEro Award winners will be announced at the SheInspires Gala Awards Evening on 21st November 2024. The event will take place at the Bolton Stadium Hotel, with the scenic West Pennine moors providing a stunning backdrop. Regardless of the outcome, her journey stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration, proving that age is no barrier to making a significant difference.
Maryam Jazeem’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, advocacy, and youthful ambition. As she prepares to share her story with the world, we celebrate her achievements and the bright future that lies ahead.
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