Anusri Ragul was thrilled with her Super Penguin Award – the highest in
the Penguin programme.
The penguins and cadets of St John Youth (Cambridge division) were recognised for their hard work over a difficult year at their recent awards presentation.
Among a slew of awards handed out was one to ‘Super Penguin’ Anusri Ragul. Not only did she achieve her Super Penguin award – the highest a St John penguin (ages 6-8) can achieve – but she also attained her First Aid Penguin Award. Anusri completed two of the nine badges required of her for the top award during lockdown.
Another top award went to Daisy Claridge, who was named the Cambridge Division Divisional Cadet of the Year for 2020. More awards are listed below.
The ceremony was held at Cambridge Elim Church in Leamington. Guests included Max and Dawn Highnman (Commander of the Order and Member of the Order respectively), Waipā District Deputy Mayor Liz Stolwyk, and the Rev Malcolm French, who is the St John Cambridge area chaplain and area committee chairman.
St John Division Manager for Cambridge, Karena Rix, said the penguins and cadets had worked hard to achieve their badges and certificates, with support from the leadership teams.
“We have had a very unusual year,” she said. “For a very long time, Covid-19 seemed to dominate our lives. There were many disappointments for us – camps and competitions cancelled, Grand Prior achievements delayed and promotions delayed. However, we managed to soldier on. I believe it has brought out the best of us as a division, as a community and as a nation.”
Some of the Cambridge St John members who attended their annual prize giving
She also thanked parents and caregivers who had supported the youngsters.
Liz Stolwyk congratulated the penguins and cadets for the good work they have done in the community. “We hope to see you again next year.”
Rev Malcolm French acknowledged Karena Rix’s leadership on behalf of the area committee, saying she had risen to the challenges presented by Covid-19.
