Triple A* student shortlisted for black achievement award (From Enfield Independent)

Triple A* student Samara Linton shortlisted for London Schools and the Black Child Academic Achievement Awards

11:00am Wednesday 3rd October 2012 in News By Hermione Wright

Samara Linton

A triple A* student has been shortlisted for an award celebrating the achievement of young black people in London.

Samara Linton, who is in her first term at the University of Cambridge, was nominated by a family friend for the London Schools and the Black Child Academic Achievement Awards.

The nomination marks the student's outstanding grades as well as her dedication to volunteering. 

The 18-year-old, who studied at The Latymer School in Edmonton, is excited to attend an awards ceremony at the House of Commons on Wednesday, October 10, to find out if she has won.

Hackey North and Stoke Newington MP Diane Abbott will host the event, with star-studded presenters including broadcaster Sir Trevor McDonald, former Spurs and England defender Ledley King and Olympic gold medallist Christine Ohuruogu.

Miss Linton, who lived in the borough before moving to Cambridge last month, said: “It was a real surprise when I found out I had been nominated because I had heard about the awards. My family are all very proud of me.”

The medicine student, who moved to Enfield from Jamaica 11 years ago, has her sights set on becoming a doctor once she has left university, as well as embarking on research work.

Although it is early days and she is yet to start lectures, she is enjoying her time at Cambridge, describing the university as “amazing” and “brilliant.”

She said she worked extremely hard during her chemistry, biology and religious education A-Levels but the "stressful" year paid off as she earned a place at a top university. She also received an A in maths.

Ms Linton volunteered at the Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice in Barnet for the last 18 months, and will continue to do so in her university holidays.

Ms Abbott said: “After the summer of celebrating British athletes at the Olympics, I’m really pleased that we have this chance to celebrate some of the high achieving youngsters at schools.

“Samara is a great example of local youngsters who are working hard, setting a good example and making a difference to the local community.

“This year’s candidates have been excellent and it’s been tougher than ever to decide who to shortlist.”