Professionals working with young people are being encouraged to nominate teenagers who deserve recognition for their achievements.

The Sandwell Teenagers Achieve Recognition (STAR) accolades will celebrate the hard work and dedication of these young people who give 100 per cent for themselves and their communities. The awards aim to honour and highlight the success of young people who have made great personal achievements or contributed to society. Young people are also encouraged to nominate adults who they feel go out of their way to support them, whether that is a teacher, youth worker, learning mentor or organisation.

TV Presenter Konnie Huq, most famous for her role as a children’s presenter on Blue Peter, will be presenting the awards at a glittering ceremony.

The event will be held at The Hawthorns on 12th March 2010 with awards for categories including:

- Young Carer Award
- Young Achiever Award
- Young Volunteer Award
- Dedication Award
- Sporting Individual and Team Awards
- Young Voice, Youth Group and School Council Awards
- Arts & performance Awards
- Young Hero / Heroine Award
- Youth Worker, Teacher, Personal Advisor and Leaning Mentor Awards
- Sandwell’s Brightest Star Award

Organisers from Sandwell’s shadow youth cabinet have also invited local comedian Dave Savage from Wolverhampton to entertain guests. There will be a photo opportunity for the winners and some of the young people nominated for awards will provide entertainment.

Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for children and young people, Cllr Ian Jones, said: “The STAR awards are an excellent way of recognising young people’s achievements and contributions to their communities, as well as encouraging them to fulfil their dreams and aspirations.”

The Chair of Sandwell’s Shadow Youth Cabinet, Jessica Masaun, said: “The awards received a fantastic response last year with over 120 nominations. The Youth Cabinet feel honoured to be able to recognise and highlight the achievements of Sandwell’s young people and give them the recognition they deserve, as often young people get an unfair portrayal in the media.”

The closing date for nominations is Friday 12th February

If you know a young person whose contribution should be recognised, or if you would like to nominate a special organisation or adult in your life, you can download a nomination pack pictured left, alternatively call Tariq Karim or Shobha Sharma on 0845 352 7541 / 32 to request a nomination form by post.

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