Celebrities turn out for vInspired National Awards
Earlier this week the vInspired National Awards celebrated the most inspiring young volunteers in England with a host of celebrities turning out to join the celebrations.
The largest volunteering awards ceremony in the country came to London’s The Round House on Tuesday, to celebrate some of the most talented and determined young volunteers.
The vInspired National Awards aims to challenge negative attitudes towards young people by highlighting the talent, motivation and generosity of young volunteers.
The categories and winners:
All Round Commitment to Volunteering: 18 year old Beth Carty, from Chester, set up a youth club to support families affected by ADHD after her frustration with the treatment of her younger sister who has ADHD. Beth also creates weekly sessions for the young people with to try new sports and make new friends
Best Young Volunteer: Amy May Knowles, from Cirencester, at just 16 is the main supporter for her mum who has three complex illnesses, but despite this, launched her own charity to raise awareness of CRPS (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome) and also chairs the Cirencester Youth Town Council. Her goal is to inspire children to help other people in life
Bringing Communities Together: Eliza Rebeiro, from Croydon, set up the Lives Not Knives project, after seeing two of her friends stabbed, with the aim of reducing gang related violence in her area. She runs road shows in over 30 primary schools and manages a team of 20 mentors.
Most Outstanding NCS Team: National Citizen’s Service (NCS) Padgate aim to bring their community together, following the tragic murder of a young local man that had created huge divisions. They decided to unite locals in a good cause by collecting donations for a local homelessness shelter
Outstanding Contribution to Youth Volunteering: Linda Markey, a 64 year old from Fylde, has helped thousands of young people reach their potential through volunteering during her 30 year career in youth work
Team Activity: The Save Epsom Phab Team clubbed together to save their youth group after their council decided to sell off their centre. They campaigned tirelessly to win their cause and secured a new location for the young people
Television personality Katie Piper and comedian Eddie Kadi hosted the star studded event that celebrated the passion and dedication of young volunteers all over the country. The night featured performances from supporters of vInspired, The Saturdays and A*M*E.
Terry Ryall, vInspired CEO says, “This year has seen some of the highest youth unemployment figures of recent times, so it’s testament to all the young volunteers here at the vInspired National Awards who have worked tirelessly to achieve their dreams and help others. The awards are a chance to celebrate all the great things young people do and celebrate their passion, creativity and determination”.
The star-studded event featured performances from The Saturdays (pictured) and A*M*E and welcomed the likes of Misha B, Gabriella Ellis, Sophia Sassoon, Amal Fashanu, Will Best and The Risk.
[Reported by Vivian Summers]