This award recognises young people or a group of young people who have made an outstanding impact on the local arts and culture community, who have excelled in their creativity and artistic talent through dance, drama or visual arts. From filmmaking to fashion design, pottery to poetry or even puppetry, young people can win the Arts and Culture Award through any art, craft or cultural activity. The award embraces traditional and emerging art forms, as well as support roles in lighting, sound, marketing and more.
Winner: Isabella Davison
In an age dominated by digital communication, Isabella stands out as a remarkable young woman who uses the timeless art of poetry to make sense of the world around her. Her work transcends her years, reflecting maturity, wisdom, and an extraordinary ability to connect with others through her words.
As a year 11 student, Isabella is already an accomplished poet. Her work is published, and she performs in prestigious settings, including London, where she impresses esteemed poets like Gyles Brandreth. Recently, Isabella travelled to Westminster to read her poetry in front of a large audience of talented writers, showcasing the impact of her voice and craft.
Isabella's achievements are even more inspiring given her diagnosis of autism and dystonia. She channels her empathy, consideration, and humility into her poetry and daily life, not letting these challenges define her. As a student leader, she exemplifies the core virtues of her school, acting as a role model while remaining humble about her significant talents.
Isabella's poetry captures a depth of emotion and insight that resonates with all who hear or read it. Her voice is one that continues to be heard, not just in her school but potentially on a global stage in the future.
Highly Commended: Leighton McBurnie
Since coming into the lives of his foster carers, Leighton has been a breath of fresh air. From primary school through to Year 8, Leighton has performed, sang, and made everyone laugh with his natural humour and ability to not take life too seriously. Not only that but Leighton also plays keyboard at school and is part of the Sunderland Youth Choir.
He has participated in two school performances: last year as a character in "The Wizard of Oz" and this year as Eugene in "Grease." At the Christmas concert, he confidently narrated in front of a full audience of children's parents and carers. Leighton also received his first London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA) qualification last year and is attending classes for LAMDA this year.
Leighton is a unique young person with a strong mind and individual style. He enjoys French at school and serves as a French ambassador, visiting other schools and engaging with French learning. He has expressed interest in taking drama in the future, a field in which he naturally excels and shines on stage.
Leighton is kind, thoughtful, and helpful. He should be proud of his achievements and continue bringing laughter and happiness to others.
This award is sponsored by Sunderland Business Improvement District (BID)
Sunderland Business Improvement District (BID) works to ensure that Sunderland city centre is a great place to live, work and visit. As well as offering a range of training and support services for businesses, it also creates a strong and imaginative seasonal events programme to raise awareness of what the city has to offer, drive footfall and grow the local economy.
