Hartlepool’s own little Tina thanks public support for Heroes award win.

Hartlepool’s rising stage star Chizaram Ochuba-Okafor has extended her heartfelt thanks to the thousands of people who voted for her to win the coveted People’s Choice Award at Hartlepool Heroes.

The 13-year-old, currently entertaining audiences as Young Tina Turner in the UK and Ireland tour of Tina! The Tina Turner Musical, was unable to collect her award in person on the night at the Borough Hall due to her touring commitments.

Instead Chizaram, accompanied by her proud mum, Sylvia, and Deputy Ceremonial Mayor Councillor Quewone Bailey-Fleet, paid a special visit to Frances Connolly, the founder of local charity The PFC Trust, to receive her much-deserved accolade.

“It made me feel warm inside knowing I had the backing of those people supporting me who voted for me to win the award,” said Chizaram.

“I have more of a push now to do even more. I do it with the passion to represent the place where I come from because I love living in Hartlepool.”

Chizaram’s journey to the stage began when she moved to Hartlepool at the age of four from London. Despite her talent, she only started dancing five years ago, highlighting her dedication and natural ability to shine.

She credits her life in Hartlepool with shaping her into the performer she is today, cherishing her friendships from Sacred Heart Catholic Primary, English Martyrs and KR Dance, and enjoying life by the seaside.

Sylvia said: “It has been amazing in Hartlepool, everyone has been so supportive.

"When she performed in Sunderland, the roar she got, you would think it was her whole household in the theatre.”

Chizaram’s talent led to roles in Oliver! at the Leeds Playhouse and The Children's Enquiry at Southwark Playhouse - an original, award-winning West End play telling the true stories of children in the care system.

Her current role as young Tina Turner has further propelled her into the national spotlight, with appearances on ITV and BBC News, This Morning and Good Morning Britain.

Chizaram’s nomination for the People’s Choice Award at Hartlepool Heroes was put forward by Kim Ross of KR Dance Studios, caught the eye of the general public and received thousands of votes.

Sylvia said: “When she was nominated, it was fantastic, I was very happy. When I spoke to Chizaram, she was over the moon. She didn’t grasp the concept of the award initially. 

"This was the People’s Choice I kept saying, and the people of Hartlepool wanted her to win. Chizaram was like ‘wow mummy, amazing’.”

The Hartlepool Heroes, organised by The PFC Trust, Hartlepool Borough Council, and Hartlepool Carers, with support from numerous sponsors and supporters, celebrated the unsung heroes of the community.

The PFC Trust’s Frances Connolly said: “Chizaram’s win not only highlights her exceptional talent but also the incredible support she receives from her hometown, a place she proudly puts on the map with every electrifying performance.

“As a charity we have even pencilled her in to perform at our annual Green & Blue Ball next year because we would love our community to celebrate Hartlepool’s shining star.”