Gloucestershire archery twins recognised as child prodigies

Young archers Ava and Amber Snell, 14-year-old identical twins from Newnham, Gloucestershire, have been honoured as two of the world’s most talented young individuals by the Global Child Prodigy Awards 2025

Recognised for their exceptional achievements in archery, the twins were among 100 honourees from over 130 countries celebrated at a ceremony held in the House of Commons on June 26, 2025. 

Founded in 2020 by Prashant Pandey, the Global Child Prodigy Awards recognises exceptional talents among children under 15. The annual programme celebrates exceptional young talents across a diverse range of fields including sports, science, arts, technology, and humanitarian work. The awards aim to inspire other young people around the world, encouraging them to pursue their passions and make a positive impact on the planet.

Each year, the awards attract nominations from over 130 countries, with around 100 outstanding individuals selected as honourees. The 2025 ceremony was the first time the awards had been hosted in the UK.

Professor George Smoot, Nobel Laureate in Physics and lead guest at the event, was among those paying tribute to the archers. “It is both humbling and inspiring to witness such dedication and skill in young people,” he said. “Ava and Amber, along with their peers, are shaping a future defined by talent, teamwork, and global impact.”

Introduced to archery in 2019 through a school taster session provided by the Newnham Archery Club, Ava and Amber quickly demonstrated their potential and within two years had broken 13 national records and secured numerous junior titles. Earlier this year, Ava clinched the 2025 Junior National U15 Recurve Champion title, further cementing their status as rising stars in the sport.

While the LA Games in 2028 is likely to come too soon for the sisters, who train four days a week, Ava and Amber have their sights set on the 2032 Summer Olympics in Brisbane, Australia. Following their recognition at the Global Child Prodigy Awards they told the BBC that they had their “fingers crossed” for a 2032 Olympic appearance, adding that they “definitely want to try and get there together”.