Words by Smiley Team
How famous people have changed seems like a perpetual fascination online. Realising this, WaterAid has put the trend to good use. The charity encouraged 10 celebrities to share childhood photos and memories in order to build support for its latest campaign.
Musicians, influencers and other public figures came forward to share their experiences of school, promote the importance of education and encourage people to donate to the Thirst For Knowledge appeal.
Among them, body-positive Instagram star, Megan Jayne Crabbe, said she was a goody-two-shoes when growing up: “I’ve always been a perfectionist; I was never late or in trouble.” This was equally so for Climate scientist and influencer Rosie Lewis who always had excellent school reports.
Musician and broadcaster, Cerys Matthews wasn’t quite so attentive, explaining: “My school reports described me as ‘excellent when she applies herself' and said to ‘stop daydreaming’.”
For fellow musician KT Tunstall this was also the case. She said: “My school reports stated ‘has potential… but easily distracted’ and they were totally accurate! I was definitely a daydreamer, occasionally falling on the naughty side.” So too was influencer and English teacher Lucy Bella Simkins who only really cared about sports.
They were joined by model Ambar Driscoll, actors Tony Robinson and Kimberly Hart-Simpson, author Jacqueline Wilson, paralympic swimmer Ellie Simmonds and TV chef Nadiya Hussain, who ranged from “cocky and a bit of a show-off” (Tony Robinson) to “a ‘busy bee’” (Nadiya Hussain).
While some of these celebrities faced challenges at school, they went on to succeed and WaterAid hopes it can give children around the world an equal chance of success through providing basic facilities.
The value of proper sanitary facilities knows no end for school children, particularly girls, allowing them to complete their education and build a better future.
Globally, a third of schools have no basic water supply or decent toilets, having a detrimental impact on millions of children’s health and education, especially among girls who often skip school when on their period if there are no toilet facilities or drop out altogether when they reach puberty.
All public donations made to the appeal by 15 February 2022 will be matched by the UK government, up to £2 million, making double the impact for school children in Nepal.
To give more school children a better chance in life, donate to WaterAid’s Thirst For Knowledge appeal.
