News
Youth Worker Awards 2012
04 September 2012
Nominations are now open for the National Youth Agency’s Youth Worker Awards, which aim to identify the country’s most dedicated youth worker - one who has shown undeniable dedication to young people and in turn has made a real difference to their community.
Last year (2011) saw the first ever Youth Worker Award presented to Candy Huxham – a committed youth worker from Hythe and Dibden who has dedicated her life to supporting young people to become the best they can be.
Candy Huxham explains why everyone should get involved and submit an application: “For me, winning the award has enabled me to carry the voice of local young people to the wider community. I have been able to take what is happening at ground level to those in positions that can change policy and procedure and ensure the young people get a voice and a say in what is happening to them.
“Our work is our reward but the Youth Worker Award is a fantastic way to say thank you to someone that has made a real impact in their area. I would urge everyone, whether they deliver or receive youth work to nominate a deserving individual.”
The Youth Worker Awards are organised by the NYA as part of its annual Youth Work Week celebrations, which runs from 5-11 November 2012. Shortlisted nominees will be invited to attend an award ceremony in London on 7 November, which will boast a programme of speakers and youth work advocates who will join the NYA in showcasing examples of exceptional youth work from across the Commonwealth’s four regions.
The NYA has organised Youth Work Week since 1993, providing an opportunity for youth organisations, youth workers and young people to highlight the value of their work to decision makers, opinion formers and the wider community. For the first time, Youth Work Week will unite all fifty-four Commonwealth countries following a partnership with the Commonwealth Secretariat.
For further information on how to nominate your youth worker for the Award and for information on Youth Work Week, visit the Youth Worker Awards 2012 page.
