Southwell Minster pupil Freddie Vokes nominated for two National Diversity Awards

A 15-year-old music and art prodigy has been recognised on a national stage for his commitment to inclusion.

Freddie Vokes, of Southwell, has been nominated for the National Diversity Award for both the Positive Role Model Award for Age and the Community Organisation Award for Age.

The awards, which celebrate individuals and organisations that promote diversity across the UK, are among the most respected recognitions for positive role models within race, gender, age, disability, LGBT+ and more.

Freddie, a Southwell Minster pupil who is preparing to take his next step by joining Birmingham Ormiston Academy to pursue his creative passions, said the nomination came as a surprise.

“I feel incredibly honoured, and still a bit shocked, to be nominated for a National Diversity Award.

“To know that people see value in what I stand for and took the time to nominate and vote for me, I honestly can’t thank you enough.”

The teenager, who has been diagnosed with ASD, ADHD, dyspraxia and is hard of hearing, invests a lot of his time into the community he was born into.

Born prematurely and often underestimated, he has gone on to pass six grade eight music and drama exams, achieve two prestigious music diplomas, and perform as a harpist.

Freddie has overcome severe bullying and personal hardship to become a powerful advocate for mental health and inclusivity, writing music to support youth mental health.

He also chairs the youth council in his area, having served as a Youth Mayor.

He added: “Being nominated means the world to me.

“But more than that, it’s a reminder of the importance of using our voices, lifting each other up, and staying true to who we are.

“But this recognition isn’t just about me.

“It’s about every person who’s ever felt like they didn’t quite fit in, who’s had to fight to be seen, or who’s stood up for what they believe in, even when it wasn’t easy.”

Freddie has raised thousands for various causes and founded a music and drama school that promotes empathy, kindness, and inclusion.

His mother, Sarah Vokes, said: “As a mum, there are moments in life that simply take your breath away, and hearing that my son Freddie has been nominated for a National Diversity Award is one of them.

“He’s always walked his own path with courage, kindness and determination.”

Sarah described her son as someone who inspires everyone around him and whose efforts to make the world a more inclusive place have not gone unnoticed.

She added: “Freddie, thank you for being unapologetically you, you’re a light in this world, and I can’t wait to see where your next chapter takes you.”

In 2025, Freddie will perform at the Nottingham Pride and Positively Empowered Kids.