Student Kelly Lowton has been shortlisted for a young achiever award after showing exceptional commitment in helping young people realise what they can achieve in life.
Kelly, from Sunderland, has been shortlisted in the undergraduate category of next month’s (December) regional Young Achiever Awards.
The 19-year-old photography student at the University of Sunderland sacrificed her own time to take part in the university's Student Associates Scheme, which focuses on working with young people with potential but lack belief in themselves.
The scheme, which ran in June this year, involved encouraging a group of pupils at Southmoor Community School in Sunderland that there was nothing wrong with being clever and that they could go on to college and university if they chose.
Kelly’s enthusiasm and commitment to the scheme led to her being given one of the best reports ever received from the school.
The university’s Sarah Dinning nominated her for the award and described her as “a pleasant and cheerful person and an excellent ambassador for the university.” One of her programme tutors described her as one of the best students the school had ever had.
A former Southmoor pupil herself, Kelly made a huge impact on the pupils, raising their aspirations, and gained wonderful praise from school staff. The school has even asked her to return on a voluntary basis.
Kelly said: “I was shocked when I was told I was nominated for the award, it was so unexpected but I was really flattered.
“It was great to go back to my old school. I got to work with my old art teachers who helped me so much and it was nice to be able to give something back. I got along so well with them all too.
“I believe that all young people deserve an equal opportunity in gaining access to education. I was the first person in my family to attend university.”
This is not the first time Kelly has worked voluntarily with young people. She was involved in an arts project with Washington Arts Centre.
The awards, which are organised by the Evening Chronicle, will take place on December 5. If she wins Kelly will take away £1,000 in prize money and a trophy.