Cadet RSM Wins Prestigious Young Leader Award

A Cadet from Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Rutland Army Cadet Force (LNR ACF) has been honoured with one of the most prestigious accolades a young person can receive in the county — the Lord-Lieutenant’s Young Leader of the Year Award.

The award, which recognises exceptional leadership, dedication, and service to the community, was presented to Cadet Regimental Sergeant Major Piper Sinclair, who serves within Leicestershire as part of LNR ACF. The Lord-Lieutenant’s Awards for Young People celebrate the very best of Leicestershire’s youth — and Piper’s recognition places her among an elite group of inspirational young leaders.

Piper currently holds the highest-ranking cadet position within the County — Cadet RSM — a role that demands excellence in leadership, communication, and the ability to inspire others. Her achievements extend far beyond titles, however, and her impact has been deeply felt by both her peers and the Cadet Force Adult Volunteers who support them.

RSM Sinclair has had an exceptional career in LNR ACF, joining us from Lincs due to moving house. I’ve had the privilege of being her Detachment Commander during the years she has been with us. She has gone from strength to strength in whatever role she was in and had truly been my right-hand woman. She’s raised standards, both figuratively and literally in Wigston Detachment. I am glad that the Lord Lieutenant read my nomination for the RSM and took it as it was meant, I reiterate my words in her nomination form.

I am glad she was chosen through a pool of incredible young leaders, where any of them were worthy winners. Her leadership has influenced change in not only her Detachment, but her Area and her County and… in her Detachment Commander.

A great way to sign off your years as a Cadet with a throughly deserved award. Well done RSM. I don’t look forward to your leaving date in June.“

Staff Sergeant Thomas Cleverley
Detachment Commander, Wigston

SSI T Cleverley, her Detachment Commander, praised Piper’s natural leadership abilities, resilience, and tireless commitment to the Army Cadet Force. From attending the demanding Master Cadet course, to leading complex training sessions and weekend residentials, Piper has proven herself time and time again as someone who leads by example.

Her influence has transformed her detachment, shaped the personal development of younger cadets, and driven high standards across her company and the wider county. Whether she is teaching intricate drill routines or navigating large-scale exercises involving over 50 cadets, Piper’s meticulous approach, professionalism, and enthusiasm never waver.

I’m incredibly honoured to receive the Young Leaders award in the Lord Lieutenant’s Awards for Young Person of the Year. This recognition means so much to me, and I am endlessly grateful for the people who have made it possible, including the cadets that have helped me to be the leader I am today. I hope it inspires NCOs and aspiring NCOs to work harder and push themselves further and to believe in their ability to lead. The evening was an incredible experience, with amazing presentation, food and other young people who have achieved indescribable things and I am eternally grateful to have been selected alongside them.

Cadet RSM P Sinclair

Her dedication to the ACF is unwavering — regularly committing over six hours a week to cadet activity, and giving up most weekends to support and inspire others. But beyond her exceptional commitment lies a young person who has overcome significant personal challenges to reach where she is today.

Piper is described by her Detachment Commander as “a natural-born leader” and “a role model” not just for cadets, but for adults too. She exemplifies the Army Cadet values — especially 无私奉献 — and remains an inspiration to all who meet her.

As part of her award recognition, Piper was honoured at a ceremony alongside other remarkable young people from across the region.

From all of us at Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Rutland ACF — congratulations Cadet RSM P Sinclair. You have made your county incredibly proud.