ABOUT THE CATEGORY: Recognises young people who have developed their skills, confidence and self-esteem and become more independent. This award celebrates a young individual or group who have shown remarkable personal development and resilience in overcoming challenges or achieving significant milestones. The winners demonstrate self-awareness, determination, and a commitment to becoming the best version of themselves. Whether through building confidence, developing new skills, or transforming their mindset, they inspire others with their journey of growth. This award honours their dedication to personal progress.
If you know a young person or a group who you think deserves to be recognised for their personal growth in Sunderland complete a nomination form here by Friday 31st January 2025.
In the words of her mum, Ella is the strongest, most caring young person she has ever known. Being on the SEN register from early years of school, facing the struggles of everyday life, she finds 'normal' activities such as going to school, communicating, noise and lights a real battle. Ella finally got a diagnosis of a learning disability at the age of fifteen.
With a love of music, she has built up the confidence to stand on stage and sing in front of an audience, which is a huge milestone that led to her winning the Principal's award.
Always putting others before herself, despite struggling to speak to others and socialising, Ella witnessed an elderly gentleman fall over. She ran over, collected his walking stick and helped him to his feet. She is a very selfless young lady.
Winner: Eli Gibson
First one through the door, last one to leave. That sums up Eli when he is volunteering at the Box Youth Project where he has participated for the last seven years.
Eli's mum became seriously ill unfortunately ending up in hospital. He had to take responsibility for his younger sister and making sure they both got to school each day, ate well and kept on top of the housework.
It was at this time that Eli was also invited to become a young volunteer. He was thrilled to be asked and really threw himself wholeheartedly into the role, attending three nights every week. He has shown great resilience and determination alongside an unwavering commitment to helping to improve the lives of others through volunteering.
This award is sponsored by Hopespring:
Hopespring is award winning charity specialising in delivering quality services to children, young people and their families and providing therapeutic care. They have two Therapeutic Schools across three sites, a Young Mum's Supported Accommodation, a Therapeutic Children's Home and an Ofsted Registered Family Centre.
