Young stars shine
Caring youngsters honoured at glitzy awards ceremony
Young people who have made a positive contribution to Renfrewshire communities have been honoured at a special awards ceremony.
The Positive About Youth (PAY) Awards took place in the Normandy Hotel, Renfrew.
These are organised by community- based youth charity Renfrewshire Youth Voice and are held to celebrate the remarkable skills and abilities of local young people aged between 12 and 25.
More than 250 guests – including friends, family and sponsors - looked on as the winners were announced.
Trophies were presented to prize winners in eight different categories of achievement, including Young Carer of the Year, Young Volunteer of the Year and Youth Group of the Year.
The winners from each of the categories were: ● Campaign for change: Who Cares? Scotland, Young Campaigners Group ● Eilish Herron Young Sports Person: Lewis Nicholson ● Ferran Hart Young Artist: Sophie Paterson ● Literature: Neave Scott ● Unsung Hero: Aleena Rafi ● Young Carer: Jamie Pizzey ● Young Volunteer of the Year: Rebecca Adams ● Youth Group of the Year: Paisley Grammar S5/S6 MVP Mentors
Councillor Jim Paterson, convener of Renfrewshire Council’s education and children’s services policy board, said: “The awards are a great way to showcase the fantastic achievements of young people in Renfrewshire.
“It has been a privilege to witness the celebration of talent that these young people have.
“We have a huge amount of accomplished and committed youngsters in Renfrewshire and these awards demonstrate the great work and results that can be achieved.
“It is events such as this that continue to build a genuinely favourable image of young people in the area.
“The winners and nominees all make a positive difference to their communities and it’s essential that we continue to acknowledge their achievements.”
Mark Dougan, chair of Renfrewshire Youth Voice, added: “The awards are evidence that Renfrewshire’s youth have a voice, have talent and have an impact on their local communities.
“It has been great to celebrate our young people tonight and I hope the award winners will motivate and inspire others.”