Seven inspirational young people were recognised at a prestigious award ceremony for their outstanding achievements, with Shelly Underwood being crowned Nottinghamshire County Council’s countywide winner.
Shelly Underwood, age 15, was nominated for her tenacious ability to overcome difficulty in her personal life whilst living with Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (PCD), a rare chronic form of Cystic Fibrosis that affects the lungs and several other organs.
Nominated by Youth Worker at Carlton in Lindrick Youth Centre, Steve Scotthorne, he said, “Shelly has spent a lot of time in hospital and must carry out exercises and physiotherapy daily to improve her lung capacity. At times, this has meant she has spent considerable time away from family and friends, leading to limited contact and isolation.
“The difficulties she has faced in her personal life and with her health condition meant the youth centre became her safe place. With the continued support of youth workers and other services, her life immediately improved at home and in school.
“She has worked so hard and achieved so much in such a short space of time, totally turning her life around for the better. I hope by getting this award it will inspire Shelly to tell her story and prove to others that whatever life throws at you there are people there to help.”
The 15-year-old has also choreographed and produced a routine for the Focus on Young People in Bassetlaw group’s ‘Focus on you’ event and performed to over 200 people.
In having such a profound positive impact on members of the youth centre where she volunteers, Shelly has inspired them beyond measure and been described as “a role model for others to aspire to” for her work with the younger members at the youth centre.
The annual event at County Hall brought together all the county’s seven district winners and their proud families, who gathered to watch videos celebrating their achievements and remarkable stories.
The event was attended by around 100 guests, including members of the youth service and County Council Chairman, Councillor Richard Butler.
The other district award winners are:
- Chloe Martin,20, from Ashfield.
- Josh Verney,17, from Broxtowe.
- Freddie Vokes,15, from Gedling.
- Dexter Chadburn, 16, from Mansfield.
- Isabelle Sears, 15, from Newark and Sherwood.
- Abi Noble, 16, from Rushcliffe.
For more details about the Outstanding Achievement 4Uth award, visit www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/4uth.