Chrisann Jarrett named Young Woman of the Year for campaign Let us Learn

Film credits: Eduardo Perez-Vidal, Go Wild Films for Women on the Move Awards.

A student from Hackney has been named Young Woman of the Year for her campaign to help young people from migrant backgrounds access higher education.

Chrisann Jarrett, 20, was honoured by Women on the Move awards for her “dedication, determination and drive” in setting up Let us Learn.

The Women on the Move Awards were set up in 2012 to recognise and celebrate inspirational leadership and the contribution from migrant and refugee women to UK society.

The former head girl at Clapton Girls’ Academy launched Let us Learn after experiencing difficulties in applying to university.

Chrisann secured a place at London School of Economics (LSE) to study Law but was told her immigration status meant she would be charged international fees and that she was not eligible for student finance.

She then deferred her place and began an internship at Just for Kids Law, a charity that provides assistance to young people in difficulty.

With the help of Just for Kids Law, Chrisann successfully lobbied LSE which offered her a full scholarship, allowing her to take up her place on her course.

Zrinka Bralo, founder of the Women on the Move awards said: “Our panel of judges was hugely impressed by the dedication, determination and drive of Chrisann.

“As a young person who faced challenges in accessing education, Chrisann decided not to remain silent but made the courageous step to speak out – not only for the sake of her own education, but for others as well.

“All our judges commended how Chrisann now provides emotional and practical support to other young people, and is building an effective campaign with them. Chrisann is a shining example of how migrant and refugee women in this country can and do contribute so much to UK society”.

Joel Carter, Just for Kids Law’s Youth Projects Manager said: “Chrisann has been tenacious and committed to improving the lives of others and trying to ensure that they are able to access education. She has also been extremely brave in publicly telling her own story.

“I am delighted her hard work, courage, and desire to help others has been recognised in winning this award.”