Nicola Staff wins award after overcoming cancer and bullies

Nicola Staff quit college after being bullied and then was struck down by blood cancer.  Now aged 26, from Ruislip, she had a breakdown and left her course and lived in a tent for 3 months. Then she was diagnosed with lymphoma and had another breakdown.

Nicola’s father put her onto Fairbridge, a Prince’s Trust organisation which helps disadvantaged young people to boost their self esteem. Nicola joined “Get Into Hospitality” a programme delivered by Marriott Hotels. Now she works full time in the pastry kitchen at the group’s Grosvenor House Hotel in Mayfair.

Last week she was named Young Achiever of the Year at the Prince’s Trust Celebrate Success awards.  Miss Staff said “I can’t believe I’ve won – I finally feel good enough”.