Young people of the borough are set to be celebrated at an awards ceremony this evening.

The Dudley Youth Awards recognise the potential and achievements of young people aged 11 to 19, or up to 25 for young people with a disability, and celebrates the valuable contribution they make to their communities. The awards evening, organised by Dudley Youth Council, with the support of Dudley Youth Service is now in its 13th year. There are seven categories including creative arts, sport, environment and contribution to school or further education.

There are two inspiration awards for extraordinary young people. These are overcoming adversity, which recognises commitment, positivity and courage, and inspiring others which rewards commitment, compassion and praises those who act as a role model for others.

There is one group award for community, charity and voluntary work. This recognises groups of young people who have made a joint impact on the lives of others in their local community. 

There is also a final category for inspirational adults called The Mary Growcott Award. This is for people who have made a real difference to the lives of young people and nominations are made by young people themselves.

More than 200 guests are set to attend alongside the Mayor of Dudley, Councillor Mohammed Hanif; Councillor Peter Lowe, leader of Dudley Council; Councillor Ian Cooper cabinet member for children’s services and Councillor Khurshid Ahmed, cabinet member for regeneration. Senior officials from other organisations including Dudley Canal and Tunnel Trust and Dudley Council for Voluntary Services will also be presenting awards on the evening. Councillor Ian Cooper, cabinet member for children’s services, said:

“The Dudley Youth Awards celebrate the kindness, dedication and drive of inspirational young people from across the borough. The awards are a fantastic way of celebrating their achievements and recognising the unsung heroes of the borough.

“I am looking forward to the awards ceremony immensely and can’t wait to meet our inspiring young people and learn more about the difference they make to the people around them.”