Seven young people from across the the county have been awarded for their outstanding achievements

Seven inspirational young people across the county were recognised for their outstanding achievements.

The Outstanding Achievement 4Uth award event at County Hall in Nottingham brought together around 100 guests, including the seven winners and their families, who gathered to celebrate their achievements and stories.

Isabelle Sear, 15, of Newark and Sherwood was one of the winners from around the district.

She was said to show ‘bravery and tenacity’ in her health recovery and actively helped to raise money and awareness of some of the difficulties faced by young people.

Shelly Underwood, 15, was crowned the 2024 countywide Outstanding Achievement 4Uth award winner.

She was nominated for her tenacious ability to overcome difficulty in her personal life whilst living with Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia, a rare chronic form of Cystic Fibrosis that affects the lungs and several other organs.

She was nominated by Youth Worker, Steve Scotthorne. He said: “Shelly has spent a lot of time in hospital and must carry out exercises and physiotherapy daily to improve her lung capacity.

“At times, this has meant she has spent considerable time away from family and friends, leading to limited contact and isolation.

“The difficulties she has faced in her personal life and with her health condition meant the youth centre became her safe place.

“With the continued support of youth workers and other services, her life immediately improved at home and in school.

“She has worked so hard and achieved so much in such a short space of time, totally turning her life around for the better.

“I hope by getting this award it will inspire Shelly to tell her story and prove to others that whatever life throws at you there are people there to help.”

The 15-year-old has also choreographed and produced a routine for the Focus on Young People in Bassetlaw group’s ‘Focus on you’ event and performed to over 200 people.

The county council’s cabinet member for Children and Families, Tracey Taylor said: “Shelly’s resilience and positive attitude whilst managing significant health challenges is a shining example of her commitment to change the direction of her life for the better, whilst inspiring so many along the way.

“Her unique journey serves as a powerful example to both young people and adults, that with determination and support, anything is possible when facing hardships.

“I am delighted that Shelly is the countywide winner for this year’s 4Uth awards and it has been wonderful to give all the other district winners the recognition they deserve for their incredible accomplishments.”

Abi Noble, 16, from Rushcliffe, has overcome obstacles in her personal life and proven to be a “fantastic role model for other young people” and those in the community through her volunteer work at Brownies in her area and youth clubs.

Freddie Vokes,15, from Gedling has been a member of the youth council for two years and demonstrated a commitment to making a difference in the lives of young people and ensure that their voices are heard. He is also a vocal advocate for mental health awareness.

Dexter Chadburn, 16, from Mansfield has overcome many personal challenges and excelled at his ability to mentor and support students his own age and older with ‘kindness and understanding’ to help them recognise their potential.

Chloe Martin,20, from Ashfield has appeared on the BBC and local news as part of National Apprentice Celebration Week to acknowledge her journey as a care-experienced young person and the support she provides to others through her role as a peer mentor apprentice.

Josh Verney,17, from Broxtowe has developed into a ‘happy and helpful young man’ and taken on a senior role at Beeston’s Young People Centre to mentor younger members in a bid to help them gain confidence in their abilities.

The chairman of Nottinghamshire County Council Richard Butler said: “It’s such a joy to celebrate the wonderful achievements of the amazing young people in Nottinghamshire.

“Overcoming challenges, lifting others up and making a real difference to the community, that’s no small thing. All the district winners should be very proud of themselves. “