Wetherby Town Council is delighted to announce that Farrah Jaruga has been selected as the winner of the prestigious 2025 Jubilee Award.
Ms. Jaruga, aged twelve, is being honoured for her exceptional efforts in charity fundraising, having raised a total of £4,900 to date for Maggie’s cancer charity. Her dedication has demonstrated remarkable civic responsibility and has directly supported those affected by cancer.
The Jubilee Award was established by Wetherby Town Council in 2012 to commemorate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and recognise young residents (aged twenty and under) who have made outstanding contributions to the community, whether locally or nationally.
Farrah Jaruga is a young resident of Wetherby whose commitment to charity has already made a significant difference. Her comprehensive fundraising campaign for Maggie’s cancer charity included:
* Organising and helping to arrange a successful fashion show.
* Baking and selling homemade cakes.
* Creating and selling handmade jewellery.
Through her work, Farrah has focused on supporting vital cancer care services and encouraging community involvement.
The winner was selected following careful consideration by a distinguished panel of local community leaders, including:
* Father Andrew Summersgill from St Joseph’s Church in Wetherby.
* John Pendleton, Director of Proportion Marketing.
* Ruth Holt, President of Wetherby District Lions.
* Captain Yvonne West of the Wetherby Salvation Army.
* Richard and Faron, Directors of Touchwood DIY
Following our announcement of Farrah Jaruga as this year’s winner, the Town Council wish to recognise the other outstanding finalists.
To be nominated for a Jubilee Award is a significant honour – it means their hard work and character have been noticed by the community.
“The Jubilee Award celebrates the vibrant future of Wetherby, and Farrah Jaruga perfectly embodies the spirit of community service and leadership,” said Councillor Connor Mulhall, Mayor of Wetherby. “To achieve this level of impact, raising nearly five thousand pounds before the age of 13, is truly inspiring. Farrah’s initiative in supporting Maggie’s charity has set a wonderful example for all young people in our town.”
Each of these young people has contributed something special to Wetherby:
* Evie Greenough aged fourteen, for her tireless work each week with the Squirrels group in Wetherby which includes organising and running activities for the children.
* Elliot Smith aged sixteen, for his invaluable help and support at the 1st Wetherby Scouts group, which involves setting up camps and leading games.
* Usman Jamal aged seven, who climbed Roseberry Topping in North Yorkshire and raised £2402 for the Children of Gaza.
* Zach Shearsmith aged fifteen, who has shown resilience and persistence despite setbacks and won the Leeds Youth Gold Order of Merit and other local competitions as an exceptional sportsman.
Wetherby is lucky to have such inspiring young citizens who all made a difference and deserve the recognition.
Farrah Jaruga the Jubilee Award winner 2025, was formally presented with the award at the ceremony held on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at Wetherby Town Hall.
This year’s nominations serve as a powerful reminder that our community is home to a generation of young people who are not just waiting for the future – they are actively building a better one today!
