Bernadette Black - 2009 Barnardo's Mother of the Year

I was excited to wake this morning to the news of this year's recipient of the Barnados Mother of the Year Award, Bernadette Black.

Bernadette Black and her son, Damien Oliver-Black

After falling pregnant at just 16, Bernadette decided that, despite the odds, she would achieve these three things; she would be the best mum she could possibly be, get an education and write a book encouraging others in her situation. In the years following, Bernadette did done all three and after such a rocky, emotional start, has now been hailed as the years best mum.

Bernadette was nominated by her 15 year old son, Damien Oliver-Black, who said of his mother, "It's like she has a flame inside her that burns and burns to help people," he said. "But she also always has time for her own kids and makes us all feel very special - and she makes great chocolate chip cookies!"

Bernadette's story is so different to previous winners of the Barnardos Mother of the Year Award. While all are very much deserving, Bernadette speaks for many of the unheard mothers. The ones who are assumed inadequate and often ignored because of their young age. How fantastic to have such a beautiful, loving woman encouraging and representing this group of people.
Bernadette's book, Brave Little Bear, is available at her website http://www.bravelittlebear.com.au/

Congratulations Bernadette!

Quotes courtesy of http://www.news.com.au/
Images courtesy of http://www.bravelittlebear.com.au/