At the Royal Global Awards 2024 held in London on November 23, British-Ghanaian philanthropist Sarah Afua Kittoe received a Special Recognition award for her outstanding contributions to her community as a young author and activist. At just 12 years old, Sarah has already made a significant impact with her initiatives, earning her place among ten exemplary young individuals honored during the ceremony. The awards celebrated the remarkable achievements of youth in various fields such as sports, entrepreneurship, mental health, education, and community service, with a total of 27 nominees in attendance. Her award citation highlighted her exceptional dedication and recognizes her as an “author with a heart of gold,” showcasing the influence she has already achieved at a young age.
Sarah’s literary journey began at the tender age of 9 when she published three children’s books simultaneously. By the age of 11, she had completed her fourth book titled “Ama and the Lost Key,” inspired by her first visit to Ghana in 2023. Her earlier works include “Lindsey and the Blue Fox,” “The Friendship Club,” and “Sarah Kittoe’s Colouring Book for kids.” These writings not only represent her creativity but also serve a greater purpose; she has committed to donating 100% of the proceeds from her books to charity, demonstrating her dedication to giving back to the community.
In her philanthropic endeavors, Sarah has made impactful contributions both in London and Ghana. In the UK, she supports homeless individuals through the Wednesday Club of the Methodist Church in Croydon and aids vulnerable children via CentrePoint, an organization chaired by Prince William. Her efforts in Ghana include refurbishing the library and computer lab at Saint Paul’s Methodist Basic School in Tema, where she provided 21 desktop computers loaded with educational content along with an extensive collection of books. Alongside her family’s donation of US$2,000 to the school, Sarah has pledged to expand her charitable projects to more schools across Ghana and Africa, emphasizing her commitment to uplifting education in underprivileged areas.
Among her numerous accomplishments, Sarah has also been a source of inspiration for young readers of African descent. Influenced by Alesha Dixon’s book “Lightning Girl,” Sarah’s writing features relatable characters that resonate with children, encouraging them to explore literature and their identities. Sarah’s goal is not only to entertain but also to empower young people through stories that reflect their experiences and challenges. This focus on representation in literature is vital in motivating other children from similar backgrounds to pursue their passions.
Currently in Class 8 (Form 2) at one of London’s prominent private girls’ schools, Sarah’s academic journey continues to thrive alongside her literary and philanthropic efforts. Despite her busy schedule, she is already working on new book projects, showcasing her determination to further amplify her voice as a young author. The breadth of her achievements, from her multiple books to her charitable initiatives, illustrates an inspiring blend of creativity and a commitment to social change, setting an admirable example for her peers.
Sarah Afua Kittoe stands out as a role model for young philanthropists and aspiring authors alike. With her youthful spirit complemented by a strong sense of purpose, she embodies the idea that age does not determine one’s ability to effect change in the world. Through her writing and philanthropic efforts, Sarah not only contributes positively to her immediate community but also aims to inspire a new generation of thinkers and change-makers across the globe. Her journey serves as a reminder that nurturing the ideals of service and creativity can lead to impactful societal contributions, making her story one worth celebrating and emulating.
