A TEENAGE girl from Pinner has won an international award for her efforts in 'advancing the status of women', which included teaching pensioners to use computers.

Fojan Nourouzi, 17, was recognised by the charity Zonta London for her leadership activities at Heathfield School in Beaulieu Drive and was awarded with a £250 cheque last week.

The Year 13 pupil paid weekly visits to entertain and stimulate residents of a local care home for Alzheimer's sufferers.

In addition, she was the team leader of a leadership challenge week, when pupils were asked to manage the school for a day, emphasising the importance of good communications and the need for complimentary strengths in a team.

Ms Nourouzi, who hopes to study law and American studies at university, said: "It was an honour to be given this award and recognized as someone who is advocating the role of young women."

Her other activities included attending an intensive language course in Spain and researching the status of women and how it can be improved for the future. The award is part of the Zonta Leadership Development Programme, designed to encourage young women to participate in public and political life.

Heathfield headmistress Susan Whitfield said: "She is an excellent role model for the girls at the school."