A piece of art created by Manahil Masood, a pupil in Year 9 at Bolton School Girls' Division, has been announced as the overall winner in the national Show Racism the Red Card (SRtRC) School Competition! She entered her moving piece in the Year 7-9 Artwork category, in which she also won first place.
The competition saw thousands of pupils from primary and secondary schools across the country submit art, creative writing and multi-media entries featuring their own anti-racism messages. This is the largest equality-themed competition for young people in the country. All of the prize winners were announced on the SRtRC website in advance, and an awards ceremony was held at Stoke City Football Club on 24 April to reveal first, second and third place in each of the eight categories.
Manahil was named the first place winner of the Years 7-9 Artwork category. While collecting her prize she was interviewed on stage and spoke eloquently about her entry, clearly explaining her anti-racist message and why she created her piece. Later in the ceremony, it was announced that she was the overall winner of the competition across all categories. The judges were extremely impressed with her piece and complimented her on both the quality of the artwork and the message.
Ged Grebby, SRtRC Chief Executive, said, "Congratulations to Manahil from all at Show Racism the Red Card on her achievement. The judges thought that her artwork was really high quality, creative, moving and had a strong anti-racism message. We look forward to making Manahil's entry a focal point of the 2019 SRtRC calendar and making sure as many people as possible get to see it."
Tess Felton, one of the Bolton School Girls' Division Art teachers, said, "The Art Department is extremely proud of Manahil and congratulates her on her phenomenal achievement. Her placing was well deserved. The organisation were bowled over by the power and creative quality of her entry."
Manahil's prize for winning overall was an iPad. She also received a football and shirt from her favourite team, Manchester United, as well as a tour around Old Trafford and a goodie bag as her first place category prize. SRtRC hopes to arrange a tour of Bolton Wanderers' Macron Stadium for her as well.
As part of the prize, her artwork will be featured in the 2019 SRtRC calendar, which will have a run of 10,000 copies.
Show Racism the Red Card works with young people to teach them about the dangers of racism. With the help of professional footballers, the organisation inspires young people to challenge racism in their schools and communities.