Celebration and recognition given to Sheffield's incredible young residents
Last night (Monday 4th November), young residents of Sheffield who go above and beyond to help their schools, communities and good causes were thanked for everything they do.
At Cutler’s Hall in the city centre, the Sheffield Youth Awards 2024 were held to thank those who carry out great work. That can be fundraising, supporting friends, family or those in their community who need support, championing good causes or standing up for those who require a supportive voice.
Some 15 categories received a record amount of nominations this year – with more than 100 worthy candidates being submitted across the full range of awards.
Not everyone could be a winner, but as well as the 15 worthy recipients, the runners up were also all rewarded with certificates and medals to thank them for everything they do to make Sheffield a warmer and friendlier city to call home.
There was a chance for the young residents to network and find new opportunities to collaborate for good cause, while also finding out information from support groups and charities who attended to hold stalls in the entrance halls as attendees entered.
Speeches on the night lavished praise on their achievements from notable attendees such as Sheffield City Council Chief Executive Kate Josephs, Deputy Council Leader Councillor Fran Belbin and South Yorkshire Mayor, Oliver Coppard.
Nominees had to reside, be educated or work in the city of Sheffield. They had to be between the ages of 11 and 19 years old ( or aged up to 25 years old for young residents with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)).
There were also three award categories for individual adults, organisations or services who support the young residents of Sheffield.
These could be given out for supporting the arts, showing resilience in a tough situation, supporting the wellbeing of others or promoting active lifestyles.
Some of the highlights included Lauren Wright picking up the Young Entrepreneurial Award for A Mind Apart, having shown drive, creativity and resilience in seizing opportunities and turning ideas into a business or community venture.
Nathan Spink collected the individual Community Champion Award as a young resident that makes a difference to the lives of others.
And perhaps the loudest cheer of the night was reserved for Kai Krowder. He picked up The Sue Atkins Rising Star in Youth Work Award for an individual who is passionate about youth work and demonstrates their exceptional contribution to their community through his work with On Board Skate Park.
The full list of award winners on the night was:
- Creative Arts Award - Sharrow Youth Dance
- Young Entrepreneurial Award - Lauren Wright - A Mind Apart
- Climate Change & Nature Award - Two winners - Work Ltd and Sustainabag Sixth Form student group
- Mental Health & Wellbeing Award - Endeavour Champion Ambassadors
- Community Champion Award – Group - Sheffield United Community Foundation
- Community Champion Award - Individual - Nathan Spink - SWFC
- Accessibility & Visibility Award - Sharrow Community Forum - Sharrow Young Leaders Group
- Health & Lifestyle Award - Aman Hussain - Sheffield City Boxing
- Connectivity Award - SENDing Voices Group
- Educating & Influencing Award - Speak Up Now 'SUN'
- Equality & Diversity Award - One Goal
- Culture & Heritage Award - Root to Table - Element Society
- Young Campaigner of the Year Award - Sheffield Young Carers Action Group
- The Sue Atkins Rising Star in Youth Work Award - Kai Krowder - On Board Skate Park
- Young Residents Champion Award - RiteTrax CIC
- Young Residents Voice Champion Award - Youth Voice & Influence Service, Community Youth Services, Sheffield City Council