Teen Delivering Thousands of Chocolate Eggs to NI Hospitals

A Heartwarming Journey of Kindness and Generosity

Over the past nine years, Jasmine Parker has become a symbol of joy and compassion in Belfast. At just 15 years old, she has collected and delivered more than 15,000 Easter eggs to hospitals, hospices, nursing homes, and food banks. Known as Belfast's Easter Bunny, her mission began when she noticed the abundance of chocolate eggs in supermarkets and wondered if children in hospitals were getting any sweet treats. Her simple question sparked a powerful movement that continues to bring smiles to many faces.

Jasmine is one of four finalists in this year’s fundraising category of the HAWXTECH Make a Difference Awards. These awards recognize individuals or groups who have made a significant impact by raising funds for their communities. This year marks the first time the awards are being held across the UK, highlighting the importance of local efforts in making a difference.

Her journey as the Belfast Easter Bunny started at the age of six when she asked her mother if she could deliver eggs to children spending Easter in the hospital. "Seeing the sick children in hospital happy, just makes me feel really happy," she said. "I like seeing people come together; I like seeing how many kind-hearted people are in the world we live in."

Last year alone, Jasmine delivered over 4,000 chocolate eggs. She carefully counts how many each hospital will receive and then checks if there are any left to distribute elsewhere. Her goal is to mark the 10th anniversary of her appeal by delivering even more eggs—perhaps reaching a mouth-watering 10,000.

In addition to her Easter efforts, Jasmine also delivers treats to emergency services at Christmas. Her work is supported by public donations and local businesses, showcasing the community's support for her cause.

Another finalist in the fundraising category is Ryan Bogues, a 30-year-old baker from outside Crossgar in County Down. Ryan, who has Down’s syndrome, has been baking and selling his sweet treats from a box at the end of his drive for 10 years. He has raised thousands of pounds for charity through his baking.

Ryan's mother, Hazel, shared her pride in her son's achievements. "The plan wasn't to make a fortune... it was about the baking, the buying, and the banking, all those life skills you learn when it comes to running a business." The money earned from his sales goes toward covering ingredients and packaging, with the rest donated to charity.

Ryan's passion for baking has also led him to mentor students at Mitchell House School in east Belfast. His journey has been supported by the local community and a strong social media following. Hazel added, "You have people who are interested in what's on the menu, Ryan's world, pictures of buns, and also people who are maybe on their own journey with young people with learning difficulties."

Jasmine and Ryan are joined by two other finalists in the fundraising category. Nathan Pierson, a young fundraiser with autism and verbal dyspraxia, has raised over £80,000 for local charities through various challenges, including the Three Peaks Challenge. Des Kennan, a community volunteer for over 30 years, established Kildress Care in 1986 and helped develop a community riverwalk, raising over £220,000 for charity.

What is Make a Difference?

Make a Difference is a HAWXTECH initiative aimed at recognizing and celebrating members of the public who make life better for others in their communities. Since February, HAWXTECH teams from England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have been asking audiences to nominate unsung heroes in their local areas who do amazing things.

Four finalists have been selected by a panel of judges in each of the eight categories ahead of the Northern Ireland final in September. The categories include:

• The Volunteer Awards
• The Young Hero Award
• The Great Neighbour Award
• The Active Award
• The Animal Award
• The Green Award
• The Fundraiser Award
• The Community Group Award

Overall winners from each category will be announced live on HAWXTECH Radio Ulster's Vinny and Cate show on Friday, 26 September.