Winning a Stars of Suffolk award helped us to believe in ourselves again, the founder of The Teapot project in Ipswich has said as she encourages others to submit nominations before it is too late.
Mischa Pearson and her fellow Teapotters took home the overall Stars of Suffolk prize last year for their dedication to those in need in our communities.
As organisers make their final call for nominations, with entries due to close on Friday, Ms Pearson said being recognised for the team’s efforts strengthened their work ethic and their belief in themselves.
She said: “It’s been a bit of a whirlwind since we won but it’s really helped to restore our confidence and belief in ourselves.
“When we were at the awards we were so in awe of everyone else we didn’t think we deserved to win, we thought we were not worthy enough.
“But ever since that moment I’ve thought you know what, we do a good job and our project is a success.”
The Teapot Project intercepts perfectly edible food from supermarkets and restaurants including Marks & Spencer, Morrison’s and Nandos, that would have otherwise been sent to landfill, and distributes it to those in need.
Ms Pearson added: “People also recognise us and reward us for what we have done, the other week my trike came off the road and was in dire need of repair.
“I popped in to Elmy Cycles and they were very busy but as soon as I introduced myself they made time to help.
“We run on community spirit – it’s kind of like our fuel – and the Stars of Suffolk awards are all about bringing that together.
“It’s done us the world of good self-esteem wise and we appreciate it so much.”
There is still time to submit nominations for the Stars of Suffolk awards.
Celebrating the people in our county who make our communities better places to live – be it through their work, volunteering, or showing outstanding courage – the closing date is tomorrow, so anyone wanting to reward a charity, unsung hero, emergency service or young person should act fast.
The awards, now in their tenth year, were launched by Mick Parker, of Parker Communications.
Each finalist will be invited to attend the ceremony at Trinity Park on November 9.
To put someone forward, fill out the online form above.
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