London Hero Tania Makwana Scoops National Marvel Rising Star Award
Tania Makwana, 31, from London, has been crowned The Prince’s Trust’s ‘National Marvel Rising Star Award’ winner. The award honours young people who smash barriers and land sustainable jobs.
At a glitzy ceremony at Theatre Royal Drury Lane, hosted by Ant and Dec on Tuesday 24 May, Tania was presented her prize by none other than Marvel legend Sir Ben Kingsley.
From Homeless to Helping Others
Sir Ben praised Tania’s journey, saying: “What inspires me the most about Tania’s story is that, after everything she’s been through, she is driven to support others through her role in the London Ambulance Service. Congratulations Tania.”
Tania’s backstory is a tough one. She left her family home at just 17, became homeless, and had no support network. Later, she endured a harrowing domestic abuse ordeal, which escalated until her partner attacked her with bleach. With police and social services backing her, Tania fled to a women’s refuge and bravely started rebuilding her life.
Ambulance Dream Turns Into Reality
During lockdown, Tania spotted The Prince’s Trust’s Instagram ad for their Get Started with the Ambulance Service programme. She took it as a sign. “I’ve always wanted to work for the ambulance service,” she said.
After acing the programme and interview, she landed a role as Assistant Ambulance Practitioner with the London Ambulance Service in January last year – fulfilling a lifelong dream. “As a little girl, I used to watch ambulance shows wishing someone would rescue me. I became an ambulance worker and saved myself,” Tania revealed. “I’m 31 now and this is the only time I’ve ever been happy – my life has only just begun.”
Hospital Boss Hails Her Courage
London Ambulance Service CEO Daniel Elkeles heaped praise on Tania: “Tania’s award is so well-deserved. We’re proud of her role in our ‘green family’ and the inspiration she offers others facing tough times.”
He urged others to consider a career with the service, highlighting the rewarding opportunities available.
The Prince’s Trust and TK Maxx & Homesense Awards ceremony will air on ITV at 8.30pm on Thursday 26 May, shining a spotlight on remarkable young lives transformed with Trust support.
