Leyton Sixth Form College student Umar Dumbuya was tragically found dead after entering the River Wye in Powys, Wales last Tuesday (30th June), writes Marco Marcelline
Tributes have been paid to a local sixth form student who tragically drowned while on a Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) trip in Powys, Wales last week (30th June).
Umar Dumbuya, a student at Leyton Sixth Form College, was found dead by emergency services after entering the River Wye last Tuesday evening. He was only 18 years old.
His college has organised a GoFundMe on behalf of his family to help raise funds towards funeral costs.
Leyton Sixth Form College wrote in the GoFundMe: “Umar will be remembered for their kindness, warmth, and the positive impact he had on his family, friends, classmates, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing them.
“As a community, we mourn the loss of a valued member of our college. Umar will be remembered with great affection, and our thoughts remain with everyone affected by this tragic event. Umar’s loss has left an immeasurable void in the hearts of all who loved them. “
Friends and classmates left touching tributes to Umar on a memorial page set up by his college. Hannan Abdullahi wrote: “I remember the first time we met on bronze DofE, you had such a positive energy and we all laughed as we messed around on the Fairmead Campsite after setting up our tents.
“Even around the campsite fire with the wood we collected after convincing our leads to go over there lighting up our marshmallows and games we all had such a great time. And seeing you around afterwards back at college, the way you never failed to have that spark and that radiant energy will always stay with me and for that I will be forever grateful I got to know you.”
Another friend wrote Umar was “someone who cares for you through good times and bad, who you can count on to lift your spirits. Umar was unafraid to be himself, and I found myself drawn to his unwavering authenticity”.
Teacher Giulietta De Lissandri paid tribute to the teenager, writing: “Umar’s smile and enthusiasm will always be remembered. As a DofE student, he shone in every way. During the Bronze expedition he helped his team mates by carrying another person’s bag who was struggling.
“An example of how generous and kindhearted he genuinely was. I know that he loved everything about the Duke of Edinburgh award.”
Umar has also been remembered as a talented actor and poet, with his drama teacher Joanne Melville stating: “You were a beautiful soul and a naturally gifted actor who brought joy, kindness and warmth into every drama lesson I had the pleasure of sharing with you. Your enthusiasm, smile, laughter and wonderful spirit lit up the classroom.
“I was so proud of you when you performed Mark’s monologue in Year 1. It was such a tense and emotional scene, and you delivered it beautifully, with a stillness, honesty and sensitivity that only you could bring. It was a privilege to see your talent grow.
“You were loved dearly by your friends, your teachers, and everyone whose life you touched. Your energy and enthusiasm will never be forgotten. Thank you for every laugh, every smile, and every moment of joy you shared with us.”
You can donate to a GoFundMe for Umar’s funeral here and contribute or read memories of Umar here
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