A CHELMSLEY Wood police cadet who ‘has a gift for bringing people together’ has been celebrated.
To mark Neurodiversity Celebration Week, March 16 to 20, Solihull Police shone the light on Lola who has been Cadet of the Year at our Excellence Awards for her fundraising work.
She has helped raise thousands of pounds for charities including Children in Need, Alzheimer’s Society and Teenage Cancer Trust.
The 15-year-old’s passion for helping others started early – she’s been fundraising since the age of seven, inspired by her mum and the local community she loves so much.
Lola was diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome at a young age, and more recently ADHD and OCD.
Writing on Facebook Solihull Police said: “Life hasn’t always been easy, but she refuses to let her conditions hold her back.
“If anything, her experiences have made her one of the most determined and resilient young people in our cadet unit.
“She has a natural gift for bringing people together – encouraging others to get involved, donate or simply give their time to a good cause.”
Outside of cadets, Lola is also a Beaver Scout Leader and part of the Explorer programme.
She joined the police cadets two years ago and since joining, she’s made friends, taken part in first-aid training exercises and crime-scene activities, and now has her sights set on becoming a detective one day.
Solihull police added: “Lola, we’re incredibly proud of you. Thank you for showing what resilience, kindness and community spirit looks like in action.”
Neurodiversity Celebration Week is a global event that promotes understanding, acceptance, and celebration of neurological differences like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and Tourette’s, shifting focus from challenges to strengths.
