A 14-year-old from Perivale has been shortlisted for a national award recognising siblings who provide vital support to disabled children.
Raphael Chiwandire has been named a finalist in the Sibling Award category at the Contact Awards. The awards, run by the charity Contact, highlight the experiences of families caring for disabled children and the young people who play a central role in that care.
Raphael is one of 18 finalists across six categories invited to a ceremony at the House of Lords later this month (24 November 2025) and hosted by broadcaster Jane Garvey.
He was nominated by his mother, Nyasha, who said her eldest son has taken on a central caring role for Sanchez, his younger brother, who is autistic.
She said: “Raphael is an incredible big brother to his five-year-old autistic sibling, showing patience, care and emotional maturity beyond his years – especially during sleepless nights. As a single parent with type 1 diabetes, I often rely on him, and he always steps up with kindness. Despite the challenges we face, he stays focused on school and gives his all. His love, resilience, and quiet strength inspire me beyond words. I’m so proud of the young man he’s becoming.”
In a further showing of his commitment to others, this month Raphael is also taking on the challenge of completing 3,000 push-ups throughout November in order to raise funds for the charity Teenage Cancer Trust.
Contact chief executive Anna Bird said Raphael’s nomination and charitable work reflect the contributions young people make in their families.
She said: “We often hear from families when they’re struggling to get support. But it’s also important to recognise the individuals whose actions make a difference every day. Raphael’s story stood out for the care he gives to his brother and to his mum.”
