Rotarians recognised for work encouraging young people

Tayside Rotarians have been recognised with a special citation for their work helping to encourage the talent of local young people.

The five clubs – Claverhouse, Dundee, Dundee Discovery, Abertay and Monifieth – were presented with the “unique” award by Rotary North East District for the work they have done with Dundee City Council and local schools.

The Dundee Rotarians organise at least six major awards each year acknowledging the varied talents of children in the city.

Competitions to find the best young writers, musicians, public speakers, chefs, technologists and photographers see hundreds of entries annually, something Rotary district youth coordinator Tim Baker said was an “amazing” reflection of the city.

The winners of these awards are then put forward for Ukwide competitions.

This year Grove Academy pupil Mia Kellner was named winner of the National Young Writers award for her article, The Eyes of War, which imagined the story behind National Geographic’s 1984 cover, Afghan Girl.

Mr Baker said: “The talent in Dundee schools is amazing and there is plenty of it.

“It is a true privilege to work with the Rotarian teams and dedicated staff to see the kids realise their hopes, dreams and expectations.

“It is such a great success story and a true testimony to the talent and hard work going on in Dundee, for which we should be very proud.”

Representatives from the five Rotary clubs were presented with their special citation at a joint meeting in the Invercarse Hotel.