Alice nets runner-up position in awards

Inspirational Alice Castle from Livingston has been named a runner- up in the Young Ambassador category at The Pr i n c e’s Tr u s t Celebrate Success Awards.

The youth charity’s awa rd s re c o g n i s e the achievements of disadvantaged young people across Scotland who have succeeded against the odds, improved their chances in life and had a positive impact on their local community.

Alice (22) f rom Livingston, never identified with the male gender which was assigned to her at birth. Despite a supportive family, Alice experienced prejudice and bullying. Depressed, she couldn’t leave the house and would stay in her room, having little contact with the outside world. Alice dropped out of school and drifted through a series of false starts in college courses and jobs.

Each perceived failure was a further blow to her self- esteem until Alice became so low that she attempted to take her own life.

She was convinced that her lack of opportunity was largely due to prejudice and came to realise she needed specialist help to be able to work with people who felt uncomfortable with a transgender person. Alice enrolled on The Prince’s Trust Get into Hospitality programme, which helps unemployed young people find a job in the hospitality industry, and really excelled.

She gained confidence, engaging with the group and sharing her story and her skills. Alice’s work placement was so successful she was offered a permanent job and she was delighted to stay because she felt comfortable and accepted. Alice has now become a hard- working Young Ambassador for The Trust, attending speaking events to share her journey.

Her powerful story has inspired other young people through television interviews and in the press as well as in person.

Alice said: “There is so much I want to do with my life and it’s The Prince’s Trust that has made it all possible. I want to make sure that young people who are in the same position as I was know about The Trust and how it can change their lives.” Sarah Whitley, partner at award sponsor Baillie Gifford, said: “Huge congratulations to Alice for being honoured at this year’s ceremony. We wish her all the best in future .”