We are thrilled to announce that Paris Thompson, who is in Upper 6 at Norwich High School for Girls, has been elected a Women of the World (WOW) Young Leader.
The WOW Foundation is a charity which promotes gender equality across the globe. It publishes its Young Leaders Directory every October to celebrate International Day of the Girl. Paris joins an array of inspiring female and non-binary young leaders, activitists and campaigners who are working to change the world.
Norwich High School for Girls is part of the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST), which nominated Paris for this prestigious opportunity. Paris is a deaf activist who has delivered many speeches advocating for deaf awareness. Campaigning for Great Ormond Street Hospital, she helped raise over £10 million for their Sight and Sound centre, which supports deaf and/or blind children. Paris is also an accomplished actress, poet and lyricist who has appeared in a film about Rose Ayling-Ellis, the deaf star of Eastenders and Strictly Come Dancing.
Paris said: “I feel incredibly honoured to be listed in the WOW Young Leaders Directory. I’ve worked hard to spread awareness about hidden disabilities like deafness, which enables people to support those around them.
“My advice to anyone who has a cause that’s important to them is to keep doing what you’re doing. Protest and positive action can change the world for the better.”
Paris is studying A Level Drama, English Literature and Geography at Norwich High School for Girls Sixth Form. During her time at the school she has set up a society to teach younger students British Sign Language and deaf awareness.