Palm Springs High School student and anti-bullying advocate Solange Signoret has been named this year's "Champion for Children," according to the City of Palm Springs, California.
At age 17, this high school senior is the youngest recipient of the award since its inception. However, she has already been advocating for inclusivity, tolerance and kindness for a decade.
According to the City of Palm Springs' website, $1,000 will be awarded in Signoret's name to sponsor a community event held through Boo2Bullying.
"I’m extremely honored to receive this award," Signoret said, according to the website. "I feel very passionate about being able to get our message out about eradicating bullying and preventing suicide, and that no hardships or bumps in the road are permanent but temporary."
Signoret is a youth ambassador for a Palm Springs nonprofit called Boo2Bullying, which runs anti-bullying campaigns in Riverside County school districts. In addition to her work with the nonprofit, Signoret has traveled nationally to speak to students and leaders about issues relating to social justice.
Proving that age is no barrier to success, Signoret was just 7 years old the first time she gave a speech regarding social justice. Additionally, she's addressed members of Congress in Washington, DC, and celebrated her 16th birthday by conducting a fundraiser that generated $1,600 to support Boo2Bullying's program for students in grades K-3.
"We strive to work with kids as early as possible because the younger we start, the better the opportunity,” Signoret said, according to the website.
The "Champion for Children" award is given annually by First 5 Riverside County (F5RC) and the Riverside County Children and Families Commission. An award winner is chosen based on recommendations of the Advisory Committee. Signoret was presented the award at the most recent F5RC Commission meeting with support from her family, including her two brothers, Luca and Jordan, as well as her parents, Silvia and Tony Signoret.