Oldham’s Amelia Manha Wins National Science Award — and Plans to Donate Her Prize to Charity

An 11-year-old pupil has won a prestigious national award – an achievement that has brought pride to her family, teachers, and her local community.

Amelia Manha scooped the prize in the Wonderverse City Innovators Competition recently. 

The former pupil at Lyndhurst Primary School in Oldham, who now attends The Hathershaw College, wowed judges with her creative and thoughtful poster showing how to make the environment better for future generations. 

Judges praised her for “an artistic vision of the future with strong vocabulary.” 

Amelia’s win brings a £1,000 science grant for her former school and the latest Apple iPad for herself — but in a remarkable gesture, Amelia has decided to auction her prize to raise money for charity!  

She said: “I would like to thank my teacher and my family for all their continuous support. As I already have a new iPad, I want to auction this one and give the money to charity to support children who are less fortunate than me. 

"I took part in a Makkah Mountain Challenge and have nearly raised £5,000 — and two years ago (2023)I raised over £40,000 for a national campaign called Ramadan 99. 

"I’m just following in my father’s footsteps who is known as the Oldham’s Runningman.” 

Her former teacher, Miss Fazeela Ramzan, added: “Amelia’s always been engaged, selfless and a true role model. Her dedication and beautiful presentation in everything she does make her a standout student.” 

Amelia’s father, Afruz Miah BEM (pictured above with his family) — affectionately known as Oldham’s Runningman for his tireless fundraising efforts — added: “All praise is to Allah SWT, we are super proud of her! She’s determined and passionate about helping people and the environment - and we’re not surprised she’s won!

"This is another honour for her and hopefully many more to follow.” 

The Wonderverse City Innovators Competition, run by Equinor and the Association for Science Education (ASE), inspires young people to develop innovative ideas for sustainable energy and cities of the future. 

Lyndhurst Primary School says Amelia’s compassion and creativity continue to inspire others long after she’s moved on to secondary school.