20 January 2009
A number of events and award ceremonies take place across the Caerphilly county borough each year, to recognise the achievements of people of all ages and abilities from all sections of the community.
Outstanding young achievers from the black and minority ethnic community will be recognised at a special awards ceremony again this year. Following the success of the event over the last 3 years, organisers of the 2009 Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) Young Achievers Awards are aiming even higher.
This year the awards, which showcase the diverse talents of BME young people living, working and/or studying in the county borough, will take place at Caerphilly Castle in March.
These awards have been designed by young people for young people, with previous winners taking a lead role in organising and delivering the award ceremony.
2008 Overall Winner, Nicholas Maund said, "I was shocked to find I was the overall winner as I felt there were so many other young achievers who also deserved the award."
The deadline for nominations for these awards is fast approaching; nominations can be submitted for the following awards:
- Student of the year
- Volunteer of the year
- Musician of the year
- Artist of the year
- Cultural achievement
- Greatest endeavour
- Contribution to the community
- Academic achievement
- Sporting achievement (both male and female)
Cllr Lindsay Whittle said, "These awards are a wonderful way of showcasing the rich diversity of our county boroughs' multi-cultural society, and the wonderful talents they have."
The event is being organised by VALREC (Valleys Regional Equality Council) in association with Caerphilly County Borough Multi-Agency Forum (MAF) for Equality Against Harassment.
The forum comprises representatives from such bodies as Caerphilly County Borough Council, Gwent Police, Caerphilly teaching Local Health Board, Gwent Probation, Citizens Advice Bureau, the local Youth Offending Service and Gwent Association of Voluntary Organisations (GAVO).
It is committed to stamping out racism by educating people and informing them of the issues surrounding racial discrimination.
If you know any special BME young people who you feel deserve to receive an award this year, you can request a nomination form by emailing your contact details to info@valrec.org or by contacting VALREC on 01443 742 704.
The deadline for submitting nominations is Friday 20th February 2009.
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