Mayfield Sixth Former wins Young Geographer of the Year Competition

Annabel, a Sixth Former at Mayfield School for Girls, has won the Royal Geographical Society's Young Geographer of the Year competition for her age group. This prestigious international award encourages young people to think creatively and analytically about geographical themes. 

The theme for 2023 was 'A blueprint for the future', with entrants being invited to share innovative ideas to address problems in areas such as food production and supply, energy and sustainability, resources, population growth, travel, biodiversity and more. Annabel's entry proposed a brownprint rather than a blueprint – a plan that involved preserving and regenerating peatlands as a way of solving some of our global challenges. 

The competition judges said: "Linking to agriculture, carbon storage, hazard reduction and water quality, Annabel demonstrated a deep knowledge of the complex way in which these geographical issues are interlinked – great work Annabel!" 

The 2023 winning pupils were awarded their certificates by television and radio presenter, Tom Heap, at a ceremony held at the Society on Friday 8 December. 

Professor Joe Smith, Director of the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG) said: “As a global community we are facing many complex geographical problems now which will become increasingly critical in the future. The ‘blueprints’ submitted give me hope that the next generation of geographers is well equipped with the skills and understanding to drive forward the changes needed to ensure a sustainable future.” 

Annabel said: "I'm thrilled to be honoured with this award! The regeneration of peatlands is something I'm truly passionate about, so having my efforts acknowledged means a lot. I am enjoying diving deeper into Geography at A level and want to pursue it further at university. I'm looking forward to the exciting journey ahead!"