We were delighted to attend the national Youth Matters Awards in London with our finalists to celebrate everything achieved by YMCA young people, staff and volunteers over the year.
Our young people, chaplains, colleagues, volunteers and corporate supporters joined the awards night at HAC Central, Islington, for an evening which included much clapping, cheering and some moving moments. It was hosted by BBC presenter Richie Anderson.
Although we didn’t secure a win, with a record 137 nominations from 30 YMCAs across England and Wales, we were so proud of our finalists – our Chaplaincy project which was nominated for the Diversity Award and one of our young people who was nominated for an individual award.
Amy, 22, from our Worthing foyer, was one of the four finalists in the Young Campaigner of the Year category which recognised a young person for the impact they have had campaigning for a cause. Amy is a respected member of West Sussex County Council Care Leavers Advisory Board and helps shape national policy. She has travelled across the country to ensure the voices of care-experienced young people are heard by those in power. She also delivers training to professionals using her own story to improve services and promote awareness around neurodiversity and special educational needs.
Our Chaplaincy project was one of four contenders for the Diversity award which recognises an initiative that encourages and promotes diversity across age, race, gender, sexual orientation, religion or disability. Through shared home-cooked meals in our supported housing, our team of multi-faith chaplains provide a sense of family and non-judgemental support, particularly for refugees and care leavers.
Chaplain for West Sussex Dani Fray reflected on the evening:
Going to the Youth Matters Awards made me feel proud to be a part of this organisation. I saw the dedication and hard work so many young people and workers put into the YMCA. They showed strength, commitment and growth. To be nominated for an award is such an honour, knowing that we make a difference with the chaplaincy services is the best reward. I am glad some of our volunteers got a chance to come along and celebrate their hard work.
One of our volunteer chaplains, Ian Larkham, said: “I felt very inspired by the whole evening and the commitment and the passion the young people have for YMCA. It was apparent that giving young people the opportunity to shine meant so much to all those involved and hope and life transformation shone through.”
“It was great to be nominated for the diversity category. As chaplains, we embrace and encourage inclusion based upon a common language on love and acceptance.”
Trustee Caroline Stearman said: “What an inspiring evening! It was uplifting to be reminded that we are part of a movement that is much larger than just YMCA DownsLink Group, and that there are people across the country who are so committed to bringing hope and opportunity to young people and families. Very moving.
“As I heard many of the finalists’ stories in many categories, I thought – we do that! So it was also a nice moment to realise the breadth and depth of impact that we have which we don’t shout about much.”
Young resident rep Mel came along with our Youth Voice and Engagement Manager Harriet Peach. She said: “It was challenging but I am proud I came. I didn’t think I’d try the food but then I actually really enjoyed the main course: Eight out of 10!”
We were also pleased to have one of our Partners for Change corporate supporters join us. Doga Can Tanrikulu, Head of Early Careers Professionals at Mott Macdonald, said: “I was really moved by the inspiring stories we heard throughout the awards ceremony.”
Congratulations to all the finalists and winners. See you next year!
