Teenager turns life around after getting involved with the wrong crowd

A teenager who found himself surrounded by negative influences has been recognised with an award after completely turning his life around.

Lebron Nelson has made efforts to change his life for the better after getting involved with the wrong crowd and episodes of going missing from school.

The 15-year-old now focuses his attention on being present, taking accountability for his actions and studying for his GCSEs to achieve his goal of becoming an electrician and working in property renovations.

Romel Davis, founder of the Live Our Best Life Awards and youth outreach worker at Nottinghamshire Police, said:

“Lebron has overcome some really significant challenges. A lot of young boys who are growing up in the city are at a greater risk of getting involved in crime and negative influences.

“He’s been nominated because of the amazing progress and personal development he has made.”

The oldest of three siblings, Lebron now sets an example for them by supporting voluntary roller-skating projects and community events at a local youth club after overcoming physical and emotional trauma and losing close friends and family from a young age.

Lebron said he enjoys playing sports, especially hockey and boxing, as it is “just something for me to express myself and have fun.”

After being nominated by mum Shavanna, Lebron has been awarded this year’s Lyrico Steede Award, which recognises a young person who may have been involved in gangs, knife crime or any other forms of criminality but has made significant progress and inspired others. 

The award forms part of the Live Our Best Live Awards – launched by Nottinghamshire Police in 2021 to shine a light on the inspiring work of young people across the county.

Lyrico Steede was a teenager who tragically lost his life aged 17 after he was lured to a Nottingham park and murdered in 2018.

His mum Keishaye Steede supports Nottinghamshire Police to honour Lyrico’s legacy with the award and a cadet base named in his memory.

Shavanna Nelson, Lebron’s mum, said:

“Lebron has had to battle with a lot of stereotypes, adversity and the perception that he is older, which has presented so many different challenges.

“It made me think about how the world sees him as a young black boy. He’s tall and has a bit of facial hair and so many people automatically think he’s an adult, when he’s still very much a young man.

“He’s got such character and charisma and I just hope he can use that for the betterment of himself and those around him.”