Teen dream realised

By Lia Bichel
A BUDDING aerial skier from Narre Warren is one step closer to achieving her dream after being named finalist in a national magazine competition.
Sixteen-year-old Jaymee Sanders was selected as one of six national finalists in the 2011 Girlfriend of the Year competition, sponsored by ProActiv Solution.
Now in its 7th year, the competition strives to reward teenagers from across Australia who are working towards making their dreams come true.
If Jaymee wins, she will receive $3000 to help fund her dream of representing Australia in the Olympics as well as training and support, an all-expenses-paid trip to Sydney, a twelve-month Girlfriend subscription and a Proactiv Solution prize pack.
“I entered the competition via email, and when they called me to tell me I was a finalist, I couldn’t believe it,” Jaymee said.
“I got to fly to Sydney for a photo shoot and an interview with the editor. It was a fun day.”
Jaymee was a gymnast for 10 years before taking up aerial ski training a year ago. While she strives to be a professional aerial skier, Jaymee is now concentrating on her studies. She now balances her Year 11 studies at Fountain Gate Secondary College with training three days a week.
She also went to Utah in December last year for three weeks to train.
Jaymee’s mother Jenni said she was proud of all the work her daughter had done.
“Jaymee works hard, has set goals and is a good role model for other girls,” she said.
Girlfriend editor Sarah Cornish said the competition celebrated everyday girls giving back to their communities and achieving extraordinary things.
“This year was our biggest year yet, receiving over 400 entries,” Ms Cornish said.
“These six finalists captured our hearts with their fantastic stories of determination and social contribution. We’re very proud to recognise these girls and look forward to helping them achieve their dreams.”
The next issue of Girlfriend magazine will be out this week and the winner of the competition will be announced in the July issue.