'Incredible' Little Box of Books intern McKenzie wins Kickstart Award 

The production manager at children’s book subscription company Little Box of Books has been awarded the Kickstart Award for Significant Contribution because of her work on diversifying children’s bookshelves.

Intern Daneisha McKenzie was selected from more than 168,000 interns at the awards on 12th July. The award recognises a young person who has made a positive impact or contribution to a business, and from which meaningful change comes about. 

It is managed by the Kickstart scheme, a programme launched by the government to deliver funding for employers offering new job roles for 16 to 24-year-olds who are in receipt of Universal Credit. It was launched to encourage young people who weren’t accessing education, employment and training during the pandemic, to get back into employment through government-funded internships.

McKenzie’s win was celebrated at ceremony at Lancaster House attended by outgoing Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

McKenzie said: “I never imagined I’d have a career in publishing and because of Kickstart I’m doing it. I feel so proud and honoured and delighted I get rewarded for doing something I love at Little Box of Books, which is helping more children to see themselves in stories. It’s amazing."

She was nominated by her employer Lynsey Pollard, c.e.o. and founder of Little Box of Books. Pollard said: "Little Box of Books wouldn’t be where it is today without the incredible work of Daneisha. She is passionate to see all children reading inclusive books and works incredibly hard to make this happen. We are so proud and delighted that she came to us as Kickstart intern and now has this much deserved award."

In a speech at the end of the ceremony, the Prime Minister acknowledged the success of the scheme and said: “None of us know when we might need fresh employment opportunities."