Children overcoming illness or disability to do their best for themselves or others, young people turning their lives around after a difficult start and groups whose work helps other vulnerable children in need are among those shortlisted for this year’s awards.
They’ve all been invited to attend the gala presentation night where the winners will get their awards and will be presented prizes by Leon.
Almost 300 children and young people were nominated as individuals or as part of groups for the High 5 Awards run by Swansea Council and partners from the public and private sector.
Nominations flooded in from friends, family, schools, Council staff and voluntary organisations in a bid to celebrate their hard work and achievements.
The awards aim to raise the profile of young people who have made a difference in their communities or succeeded against the odds.
Swans midfield ace and awards ambassador Leon said: “It’s one thing to have record entries this year but even better is to have such a high quality of nomines that the judges and I were literally blown away by.
“That’s why judges have awarded more Highly Commended certificates than ever before because preparing a shortlist of finalists was a really hard task.
“I am looking forward to meeting those who have been shortlisted and congratulating the winners on Wednesday. I hope their stories will prove to be an inspiration to others of all ages across Swansea.”
Jack Straw, Chief Executive in Swansea Council, said: “The High 5 Awards is one of the most important events of the year in Swansea. It’s our chance to celebrate the achievements of young people in our communities.
“This is an event that I’m personally very passionate about. I’m sure the achievements of this year’s group of winners will help inspire other young people in the city, helping them to go on and achieve great things.”
The High 5 Awards are open to any child or young person or group in three age ranges – under 13s, aged 14 to 19 or 20 to 25-year-olds.
They are organised by Swansea Council with sponsorship from Gower College. The awards are supported by Swansea City FC, Stenor Environmental Services, the Lord Mayor’s Office, Swansea Building Society, the Rotary Club Of Swansea and The Wave.
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