Young achievers honoured at Recognyz Awards

The efforts of Hamilton’s young leaders will be celebrated at the Recognyz Youth Awards next week.

The annual awards are hosted by the Hamilton Youth Council, and will be held at Wintec Atrium on Thursday, 6 December, from 6.30pm, with seven awards to be bestowed.

Councillor Margaret Forsyth, Hamilton City Council’s representative on the Youth Council, says the awards cover a range of achievements, from performing arts to environmental and conservation work. One of the 20 finalists will also be named as the Supreme Award winner.

“Hamilton has one of the youngest populations of any city in New Zealand, and the finalists for the Recognyz Youth Awards make tremendous contributions to our city and its community,” Cr Forsyth says.

“Smart ideas, leadership skills and unwavering support for their peers are just a few of the great qualities these young people demonstrate.”
Entry to the event is by gold coin, to be donated to the Hamilton Christian Night Shelter.

The full list of finalists:

Youth 4 Youth – for leadership of other young people (sponsored by TALKINGtech Foundation)
• Khan Edmonds
• Rangi Pou
• Sam Taylor

Enviro – for outstanding contributions to the environmental sustainability of Hamilton (sponsored by McCaw Lewis)
• Sam Taylor
• Alison Makker

Innovation – for innovative and creative ideas and projects (sponsored by Free FM 89)
• Enactus Waikato
• Sam Hambling
• Yvette Willemse

Dream Team – group award for community involvement and volunteering (sponsored by SBS Bank)
• Enactus Waikato
• AIESEC Waikato Inc
• Hamilton Boys’ High School Service Committee

Beatstreet – for outstanding contributions in arts, music or culture (sponsored by Hamilton Central Business Association)
• Joseph Murphy
• Brendan Theodore
• Yvette Willemse

Manaakitanga – for community involvement and volunteering (sponsored by Glenview Community Centre)
• Stephanie Collis
• Hamish Crequer
• Bayley Czepanski

Kia Kaha – for overcoming adversity (sponsored by River Road Dental Centre)
• Hannah Millar
• Gabe Banks
• Casey Stokes