The South Ayrshire Youth Awards were held at Ayr Town Hall on Tuesday 10 November to celebrate the achievements of young people from across South Ayrshire.
Organised by South Ayrshire Council’s Thriving Communities Learning and Development Service and supported by local young people from Youth Voice Groups, the awards recognise those who have made an exceptional contribution to their schools, youth groups and local communities.
Outstanding young people aged 11 to 25 were nominated for awards within 9 categories, with 3 finalists from each category going forward to the awards ceremony.
Attendees of the event then voted for the Overall Young Star Award winner from among the finalists.
The South Ayrshire Youth Awards is a youth-led event, with young people helping to choose the award categories, theme, venue, programme and decorations.
This year’s theme was inspired by superheroes and comic books, which reflected the outstanding contributions of local young people and celebrated them as the real-life heroes of their communities.
This year, young people approached local businesses to sponsor award categories and donate raffle prizes for the event. The overwhelming support received helped create a memorable celebration and highlighted the community’s commitment to recognising young people’s achievements.
Jane Bradley, Director of Communities and Transformation, opened the event.
Young people from South Ayrshire Youth Council and local Thriving Community youth groups presented each award category.
The attendees of the event voted for the overall winner which was presented by Councillor William Grant, Education and Lifelong Learning Policy Lead, and all young people who supported with the planning of the event were presented with certificates.
Award winners
Phoenix Award - Mai Aan Nguyen
Community Champion Award - Cooper McClymont
Arts and Entertainment Award - Caitlyn McDonald
Learning and Achievement Award - New Arrivals Education Hub
Young Volunteer Award (11 to 15 years) - Sophie Stewart
Young Volunteer Award (16 to 25 years) - Tyler Bell
Inclusion and Diversion Award - St John’s Equalities Group
Youth Voice Award - South Ayrshire Youth Council
Modern Apprentice of the Year (16 to 25 years) - Ami McNally
Overall Young Star Award - Tyler Rice
The young people were also entered into a raffle prize draw with prizes presented by South Ayrshire Provost Iain Campbell and Depute Provost Mary Kilpatrick.
Councillor William Grant, Education and Lifelong Learning Policy Lead for South Ayrshire Council, said, “Our remarkable young people continue to inspire us with their dedication, talent and commitment to making a difference.
These awards recognise their fantastic achievements and celebrate the positive impact they have across South Ayrshire.
“I would like to congratulate all of this year’s nominees and winners. Their hard work, passion and achievements make them excellent role models, and I wish them every success in the future.”