Hosted by the Newry, Mourne & Down Youth Council, in collaboration with the Education Authority, Newry, Mourne & Down District Council and FLARE, this event honoured the unsung heroes whose inspirational contributions often go unnoticed.
The YAFTAs were conceived to spotlight the exceptional efforts of young people across various endeavours, ranging from community service to innovation and leadership. Held at the elegant Canal Court Hotel in Newry, the awards night exuded splendour and glamour, with approximately 200 attendees dressed in stunning formal attire. As the red carpet was rolled out, the awardees received the celebrity treatment they truly deserve.
This year, the competition was particularly fierce, with numerous outstanding nominees submitted for recognition. Despite the challenges in shortlisting the winners, the selection process highlighted the depth of talent and commitment prevalent among young people in our district.
Chairperson of NMD District Council, Valerie Harte stated: “I was delighted to attend the YAFTAs on Thursday evening. It was a great event to acknowledge and celebrate the unsung young heroes living and contributing to communities and families across the Newry, Mourne and Down District Council area. I would like to congratulate the organisers of the event, the young people from the Youth Councils, it was fantastic to see them deliver such a great event that showcased the talent and goodwill of young people from our area.”
Donna Weir, Senior Youth Officer, Education Authority for NMD said "I am grateful for strong partnerships and dedicated staff, tonight's event celebrates youth participation and empowerment in our communities. It's crucial that young voices shape the services designed for them, and tonight reaffirms our belief in their invaluable contributions to our communities. "
The winners of the eight categories are as follows:
Voice of Young People Award:
Winner: Gets Active Advisory Group (Patrician Youth Centre)
Runner Up: Magnet Management Committee
Inspirational Young Person Award:
Winner: Josh Muckian
Runner Up: Conor Sands
Mental Health & Wellbeing Award:
Winner: Respect Project
Runner Up: Derrybeg Youth Group
Social Enterprise/Action Award:
Winner: Hilltown Youth Provision, Santa Experience
Runner Up: Music and Media Group Magnet Young Adults Centre
Environmental Award:
Winner: Mourne Youth Forum
Good Relations Award:
Winner: Friday Night Youth Club – Kilkeel
Runner Up: St. John Bosco Youth Centre
Community Safety Award:
Winner: Newry Youth Forum
Runner Up: Clanrye Group
Inclusion Award:
Joint Winners: Creative Minds Group – Youth Engagement Service & Bosco Drama Group
These remarkable young individuals and groups exemplify the spirit of leadership, compassion, and innovation, embodying the essence of community engagement and empowerment.
1. YAFTA Awards
Voice of Young People Award Winner was the Get Active Advisory Group, Emma Noade presented Conor Galbraith, Gary Gordon and Megan Reilly with the Award and they were joined by Council Chairperson, Councillor Valerie Harte and Yvonne Maguire Senior Youth Worker. Photo: Submitted
2. YAFTA Awards
Inspirational Young Person Award Winner was Josh Muckian pictured accepting his YAFTA award from Thomas Tiernan and Newry, Mourne and Down Council Chairperson Councillor Valerie Harte. Photo: Submitted
3. YAFTA Awards
Social Enterprise Award Runner Up was the Music & Media Group Magnet Youth Centre, Presenting the Award Eve McFee and Newry, Mourne and Down Council Chairperson, Councillor Valerie Harte to Gingy and Claire and the rest of the group. Photo: Submitted
4. YAFTA Awards
Community Safety Award Runner Up was Clanrye Group, the award was presented by Sarah Lydia Revile and Newry, Mourne and Down Council Chairperson Councillor Valerie Harte to Jordie Boxberger and Jack Donnan. Photo: Submitted