Defying dyspraxia
64. Jess Starns
A 24 year old woman has set up an organisation supporting young people living with Dyspraxia.
Jess Starns, who was inspired to work with young people after taking part in a 12-week course run by the youth charity Prince’s Trust, is the latest recipient of a Point of Light award. Jess set up ‘Dyspraxic Me’ with support from Starbucks Youth Action, a social action programme run in conjunction with UK Youth.
Inspired by her personal experience of living with Dyspraxia, a developmental coordination disorder that affects motor skills as well as problems with language and perception, Dyspraxic Me is a particularly impressive achievement. The group organises events to help young people with Dyspraxia improve their personal and work skills including workshops on managing your money, interview skills, cookery and yoga classes.
Jess relentlessly secures the best speakers, trainers and guests for the events she organises for ‘Dyspraxic Me’, benefitting the huge number of young people who subscribe to them.
Prime Minister David Cameron said:
“By drawing on her own experiences, Jess has created an organisation with fantastic impact, giving young people invaluable opportunities to share experiences and improve their skills. I’m delighted to recognise Jess by making her a Point of Light.”
Laura Read, Head of Volunteering at Prince’s Trust said:
“We are over the moon that Jess has won this award. She is an inspiration to many young people and is using her experiences of dyspraxia to change young lives.”
Nicky Gaskell, Youth and Community Campaign Manager at Starbuck’s, said:
“Jess’s Point of Light Award is highly deserved and we’re delighted for her. The drive and dedication she’s put into organising Dyspraxic Me and making her events both fun and educational for young people is truly impressive. She’s an outstanding ambassador for Starbucks Youth Action.”
Jess said:
“I’m delighted to have won this Point of Light award. I have had an overwhelming response from people about the Dyspraxia Me support group, and I’m grateful for the support which I have had from Starbucks Youth Action to get my project off the ground and raise awareness. I’m looking forward to developing the programme and seeing how Dyspraxic Me can help young people.”