A THURROCK army cadet is about to lose his treasured locks to raise funds for a good cause, at the same time paying a heartfelt tribute to his mother.

Junior Wilkinson, 17, lives on the Seabrooke Rise estate in Grays and is a member of the town's Army Cadet detachment, which is an organisation that had helped bring stability to his life.

Junior says: "Since childhood, my afro has been a part of my identity But now, I'm ready to part ways with it for a cause close to my heart.

"Growing up, I faced numerous challenges, struggling with my behavior and finding myself in trouble at school. Detentions and suspensions were a regular part of my story, with over 45 days of suspension in just two years. But then, something changed. I found solace in the Army Cadet Force.

"The cadets taught me invaluable lessons about discipline and the importance of self-improvement. Despite my mistakes throughout my cadet career, the adult instructors believed in my abilities, offering me chances to succeed even when I may not have deserved it.

"Through this, I rose through the ranks, from facing four demotions to achieving the rank of Sergeant. Now, as one of the senior NCOs in ACF, I'm determined to show others that transformation is possible.

"My journey is a testament to the power of mindset and that a person's most powerful tool is their mind , no matter how hard if you believe you will achieve it.

"But none of it would be possible without the support of my biggest inspiration, my mother. My mother's determination in overcoming health challenges, from double pneumonia to being told she would never walk again however now being an experienced bus driver, inspire me every day. Her resilience fuels my ambition to now pursue a career in the British Army as an officer, to make a difference and support her in return.

"To honor my journey and support others facing similar struggles, I've decided to shave my afro for charity. This symbolic act aims to shed light on two important causes: the Army Cadet Charitable Trust (ACCT) and Mind UK.

"The ACCT provides essential support to cadets, offering grants for events and activities, as well as equipment to facilitate cadet activities. Their work ensures that young individuals have access to life-changing opportunities within the cadet force.

"Meanwhile, Mind UK is a beacon of hope for those struggling with mental health issues. As a teenage boy, I understand the stigma surrounding mental health, but I've learned that seeking help is crucial. Mind UK provides vital support and resources for anyone in need, ensuring that mental health is not left behind.

"By sharing my story and supporting these charities, I hope to inspire others to believe in the power of transformation and the importance of seeking help when needed. Together, let's make a difference and shine a light on these worthy causes."

You can donate to Junior's fundraising effort via this link.