Three Greater Dandenong students were recognised for their humanitarian efforts through a national award.
Insyirah Muhamad Kadir from Keysborough’s Mt Hira College, Blake Connors from Haileybury’s Keysborough campus and Attaullah Rahimi from Dandenong North Primary School accepted the Fred Hollows Humanity Award on 26 October.
Fred Hollows Foundation chairman and former Victorian premier John Brumby presented them with certificates at a ceremony in Melbourne.
The award acknowledges Year 6 students who follow in eye surgeon Mr Hollows’ footsteps by demonstrating humanitarian values towards others.
He worked tirelessly to restore sight to underprivileged people around the world.
Insyriah was nominated for being compassionate, humble and caring for all creatures great and small, and was described as a big environmentalist.
Blake was nominated for distributing bags of toys on his holiday trip to Fiji to less fortunate children, and Attaullah’s nomination was for his unwavering kindness to his peers, teachers and strangers.
“These young Victorians have shown confidence, compassion and leadership within their schools and in the wider community,” Mr Brumby said.
“Their care and concern for those around them is an inspiration, not only to their peers, but to their teachers, parents and everyone they meet.”
The Fred Hollows Foundation’s founding director Gabi Hollows said the endless ideas and energy of young people who were making a positive difference in their communities continued to inspire her.
“Fred would have been incredibly proud of the contribution these students are making to society and of the foundation for recognising and encouraging them to help others, no matter how big or small their actions,” she said.
