Students from St John Payne, Chelmsford recently took part in the Young Catholic Influencers of the Year Award. Noah Ford (Year 7) wrote the following article reflecting on the day they spent at Westminster Cathedral. 

Taking part in the Young Catholic Influencers of the Year Award was an incredible experience and one that I will never forget. Alongside nineteen other Year 7 students, I had the opportunity to represent St John Payne Catholic School at a joint-diocese event in Westminster, where we explored how Catholic Social Teaching can inspire us to make a difference in the world today.

Our team’s focus was on homelessness and the dignity of every human person. Through our research and preparation, we learned that homelessness is not simply about people lacking a place to live. It is about individuals who can often feel unseen, forgotten or excluded by society. Catholic Social Teaching reminds us that every person is made in the image and likeness of God and deserves to be treated with dignity, respect and compassion.

In my speech, I spoke about the Gospel call to recognise Christ in those who are most vulnerable. I reminded the audience that whenever we look at the face of the poor, the displaced, refugees, or those experiencing homelessness, we are called to see the face of Jesus. This message is at the heart of our Catholic faith. It challenges us not only to feel sympathy but to take action, standing alongside those in need and working for justice in our communities.

Although I had the privilege of speaking in the final round, this achievement was not about one person. It was the result of a huge team effort from all twenty students who took part. Every member of our group contributed ideas, conducted research, helped prepare our presentation and supported one another throughout the competition. Reaching the final and ultimately winning the award was only possible because of the dedication, commitment and teamwork of every student involved.

I was extremely proud when St John Payne was announced as the overall winner of the Young Catholic Influencers of the Year Award. As this was our first time entering the competition, it made the achievement even more special. The experience showed us that young people can have a powerful voice when speaking about faith, justice and the common good.

Our work does not end with the competition. This Friday, more than 100 students from St John Payne will be taking part in a Sleep Out in support of Caritas Brentwood. The event aims to raise awareness of the challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness, develop empathy for those who struggle each day without secure accommodation, and raise much-needed funds to support the vital work of Caritas. While one night outdoors cannot replicate the reality of homelessness, it gives us an opportunity to reflect on the experiences of others and put our faith into action.

The Young Catholic Influencers Award reminded us that faith is not something we keep to ourselves. It should inspire us to serve others, speak up for those whose voices are unheard and build a society where every person is valued. As Pope Francis often reminds us, we are called to go out to the margins and accompany those in need. This is something that we, as young Catholics, can begin doing today. Winning the award was a wonderful achievement, but the greatest lesson we learned was that small acts of compassion and solidarity can make a real difference. Through our work on homelessness and our ongoing support for Caritas Brentwood, we hope to continue living out the Gospel message and the principles of Catholic Social Teaching in our school, our local community and beyond.