Sponsored Editorial by Aldo Sotgiu, managing director of Wards

For 20 amazing years, we've had the privilege of hosting the Wards Children’s Awards, a heartfelt celebration of the incredible achievements of resilient children, young heroes, remarkable families, and supportive charities.

Back in 2003, our founder, Paul Rooney, his wife Clare, and David Lench, the then group managing director of Wards estate agent, started this annual tradition to honour remarkable young people who had faced and overcome adversity in their lives.

Quickly, the awards became the highlight of our social calendar and captured the attention of the people of Kent.

Twenty amazing ceremonies later - including one held entirely online (thank you Covid) – it has been a real privilege to meet some truly fantastic children, young people and their families. From young carers who have saved the lives of family members to children who have overcome immense challenges and still keep a smile on their faces, their stories will remain with us forever.

None of us who were present at the ceremonies will ever forget the proud faces on the mums and dads as their kids went up on the stage to collect their awards from Good Morning Britain’s Charlotte Hawkins. Charlotte has been a massive supporter of the awards for more years that I can remember, for which I’m immensely grateful.

A common thread among all our winners is an unshakeable determination, even in the face of the toughest challenges. They shine with a positivity that’s nothing short of inspiring, putting our own everyday woes into perspective and reminding us of the strength of the human spirit, even in those so young.

Last month, we had the pleasure in sharing the stories behind the achievements of nine incredible winners, all of whom displayed remarkable spirit during exceptionally trying times. You can read the full article about all our winners and their stories here.

Why do we do it? Well, we believe connecting with our local communities is extremely important and a core part of our culture.

Over the years, our community support has grown. Wards staff helped raise around a million pounds in 2022 for foodbanks at the height of the cost-of-living crisis, and the Children Awards is the highlight of the year, which enables us to give something back.

Our staff also take it upon themselves to enthusiastically engage in charity fundraising whenever they can for some amazing causes!

We are immensely proud to be one of the top community agents in your local area, dedicated to supporting our communities and sharing stories from some truly fantastic individuals.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended this year's awards; we are already eagerly anticipating next year!