“Life Changing” Young Peoples stories and achievements celebrated at YMCA Norfolk’s Annual Celebration
YMCA Norfolk’s annual celebration and awards ceremony welcomed an audience of 150 on Thursday, 14th November, to honour the charity’s inspiring young people, clients, staff, and volunteers. Hosted at The Space in Norwich, the event was hosted by Seb one of YMCA Norfolk’s amazing young people, Many moving and inspiring stories from children and young people were courageously told sharing their journeys of hope and transformation.
Attendees, including councillors, civic leaders, patrons, trustees and supporters also heard powerful stories from children such as Caitlin who shared her experience of YMCA Youth Clubs and young people who have received mental health support as well as an update on the organisation’s nursery and impact throughout the year.
John Lee, YMCA Norfolk CEO, was interviewed by the evening’s host and during the interview he was asked about his biggest highlights of this year:
“One of my memories from last year is speaking to a group of long serving team members who have been to at least 6 of these events. They spoke of the impact of hearing the young people talk about their experiences at YMCA Norfolk, of seeing the young people receive the awards and how it provided the “why” behind all they do.”
The celebration was followed by an inspiring awards ceremony, where winners were announced across 7 categories:
Volunteer of the Year
The 2024 Volunteer of the year award went to Andrew Hadley. Andrew has volunteered over 200 hours to raise vital funds for the organisation. Being described as incredible, Inspiring and invaluable in their role, Andrew was a well deserving winner of the award. Be more like Andrew and join the YMCA Supporters Team fundraising to raise vital funds and awareness to help with YMCA Norfolk’s mission in transforming young lives across Norfolk.
Community Hero
The Community Hero award is dedicated to someone who has made a considerable difference to the lives of young people across Norfolk. This year’s winner of the award was Sir Norman Lamb for his amazing achievements in creating the coalition for young people, uniting over 50 organisations to support mental health, learning disabilities and autism services impacting over 10,00 young people to date.
Young Volunteer of the Year
The volunteer of the year award recognised a dedicated young volunteer who has shown outstanding commitment to the YMCA and their local community. The winner of this year’s award was Tooni. Tooni has volunteered at a YMCA charity shop and eagerly contributed to opportunities that have arose within the YMCA and the local community. They’ve generously given a lot of their time, on top of attending college full time.
Tenant of the Year
The Tenant of the Year award honoured a resident deeply involved in both their home and community, embodying dedication and kindness. This year’s award went to Navana Ward, who has faced and overcome significant challenges, emerging as a vital and inspiring presence in YMCA Accommodation services. Navana consistently goes out of their way to support others, offering guidance and advice to new residents to help them settle into hostel life. Their generosity and caring spirit have not only boosted their own confidence but have also helped create a more supportive, connected community at the King’s Lynn hostel.
Healthy Living Award
This award celebrated a group of individuals who have built a welcoming and supportive community through their shared passion for football. Together, they’ve demonstrated remarkable sportsmanship, sharing skills, and motivating each other to grow. Through collaborative teaching and mutual encouragement, they’ve helped each other tackle weaknesses and amplify strengths, inspiring the group as a whole.
The 2024 winners were The Life Ready Football Group, comprising ofEmad Shinawa, Benji Chiata, Ryan Perkis, Siaka Bah, Owen Donnelly and Ryan Harris.
Inspiration Award
The winner of this award, Sophie Place, is a true inspiration. Sophie pushed herself out of her comfort zone by completing a wide range of courses and activities, connecting with people of all ages and backgrounds and by constantly learning new skills. Her positive attitude and commitment to personal growth have encouraged others to engage in positive activities, empowering those around her. Sophie has become deeply passionate about making a difference in the world and in people’s lives, with aspirations for a future career in politics.
Richard Jarrold award
Richard was a dedicated advocate for young people, serving YMCA Norfolk in numerous roles for over 50 years. In his memory, this award honours a young person or family who has overcome significant challenges to reach new milestones in their journey toward their full potential. Richard’s daughters, Caroline and Michelle Jarrold, thoughtfully reviewed all the nominations and were inspired by each candidate’s stories of resilience and growth. The recipient of this year’s award, Hana Nomad, demonstrated exceptional commitment to personal development. Despite facing personal challenges, Hana has excelled as a model tenant, engaged in multiple volunteer roles, and completed various ASDAN courses. Her passion for photography has not only fuelled her own growth but has also benefited the community through her volunteer work with various organizations.
The event ended by reviewing a high energy film of just some of the amazing activities and achievements of the young people over the past year.
