6 September 2018

The Hurunui District was well represented at the YMCA Canterbury Youth Awards, with two of our outstanding Youth Council members recognised for their service to the community.

Ashleigh Brown, from Hurunui College, was nominated for numerous awards and ultimately took out the Supreme Youth Award for the Hurunui District. The Supreme Awards acknowledge young people, who have made contributions to the youth space in areas such as leadership, wellbeing, community action, or youth participation.

Ashleigh is a school leader, student councillor, and recently raised $1000 for the 40 Hour Famine. Often putting her community before her own work, she has been recognised for her active participation as the Hurunui Youth Council’s Deputy Chair and for her voluntary work.

“I was shocked to even be nominated by people within my community, as I was unaware they saw me as a leader. I’m very surprised and extremely honoured to have received the award,” Ashleigh says.

Tessa Allen, also from Hurunui College, was nominated for the University of Canterbury Community Action Award and was awarded runner up. This Award recognises young people that actively commit their time and energy to volunteering and making a significant impact in their community.

Tessa was nominated for active involvement in many community areas. Tessa is a volunteer member of the Hawarden Fire Brigade, a member of the Hurunui Youth Council, and is involved in a range of environmental and sporting endeavours.

“I honestly wasn't expecting to be a finalist for the Community Action Award but was pleasantly surprised when I received the email! As the runner up, I feel so proud and privileged to have been able to represent the youth of the Hurunui,” says Tessa.

Mayor Winton Dalley says that while he is disappointed he could not attend the awards night, he is thrilled with the recognition Ashleigh and Tessa have received for their work in the community.

“I am immensely proud of these two young ladies. Our Youth Programme is recognised as one of the best across New Zealand and the recognition Hurunui youth continue to receive is a credit to the programme and the Youth Council.”

“I’m proud of the way we facilitate youth engagement in this district and I am confident we will keep seeing outstanding achievements from our young people.”

ENDS

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