Pupils at Lawn Manor Academy have turned their artistic talents towards honouring the women who inspire them most – from pop stars to political leaders and frontline journalists – as part of the school’s annual art competition for International Women’s Day.
Throughout March, students were invited to take part in a creative challenge: to draw a portrait of a woman who has inspired them. The entries came flooding in, with heartfelt tributes that ranged from celebrated figures of history to contemporary icons.
This year’s winning entry in the Key Stage 4 category came from Year 10 student Ayesha, who produced a striking portrait of Palestinian journalist and activist Bisan Owda. Ayesha said she was moved by Bisan’s courage in reporting from a war zone:
“I chose Bisan Owda because I found her journalism on the genocide in Gaza very brave and inspiring. I hope to one day create work that brings light to people’s suffering and reflects my own moral compass as a woman in the world.”
Meanwhile, Year 9 student Crystal took top honours in the Key Stage 3 category with her powerful sketch of Adele. “It feels like she just understands her emotions and puts them into her songs,” Crystal said. “She inspires me to keep going, especially when things are tough.”
Other portraits submitted celebrated a variety of influential women, including Florence Nightingale, Indira Gandhi, Ariana Grande, and Arwa al-Sulayhi, each one chosen by pupils for their personal significance or historical impact.
The competition has become a tradition at Lawn Manor Academy, having first been introduced in 2016. Remarkably, this is the second year in a row that Ayesha has claimed first place—last year she won in the Key Stage 3 category with a portrait of Benazir Bhutto.
Caireen Young, Head of Art at Lawn Manor, said:
“Every year, this competition reminds us just how thoughtful and talented our pupils are. It’s about more than just drawing – it’s about who they look up to and why. Whether that’s someone who shares their passion, or someone who stands for something important, these portraits show depth and care.”
The winning artworks are now on display in the school’s West Manor Foyer, a busy area where pupils gather during breaks and lunchtimes. Caireen added:
“It’s wonderful to see these faces looking out from the walls. They’re not just famous people – they’re symbols of what our pupils aspire to be, and of the creativity we’re proud to nurture at Lawn Manor Academy.”
Lawn Manor Academy is part of the Ascend Learning Trust. For more information about the school, visit www.lawnmanor.org.
