Pride of Somerset Youth Awards

25/04/2025

So, what are the Pride of Somerset Youth Awards all about? 🤔

Since 2007, POSYA has been honouring the remarkable achievements of young people aged 21 or under across Somerset. We celebrate those who have inspired others, achieved incredible things, and contributed positively to their communities over the past year. From outstanding courage to exceptional talent, these awards shine a light on accomplishments that often go unnoticed.

💬 As Nigel Muers-Raby, CEO of Passion for Somerset, said after the 2024 ceremony: "It is a privilege to be such a pivotal part of this prestigious event and celebrate the incredible young people throughout our county... it is wonderful to have the opportunity to commend these young people in such a special way."

Join us as we countdown to the 2025 ceremony and share inspiring stories!

23/04/2025

✨ Proudly Announcing Our Principal Sponsor: Taunton Round Table! ✨

Get ready Somerset! The countdown to the Pride of Somerset Youth Awards 2025 Award Ceremony has begun! We're thrilled to kick off by introducing our esteemed Principal Sponsor, Round Table! 🎉

Taunton Round Table shares our passion for fostering excellence and positive change within Somerset communities. Guided by their motto "Adopt, Adapt, Improve," they bring together young men (18-45) to challenge, inspire, and learn from one another, empowering them to make a real difference at home, work, and across Somerset.

⌛ Founded in 1927, Roundtable has a rich history of supporting young people and recognizing the importance of change driven by fresh perspectives. Their commitment to personal development, fellowship, and community service perfectly aligns with the spirit of the POSYA.

We are incredibly grateful for Round Table's support in helping us shine a light on Somerset's extraordinary young people. Stay tuned as we celebrate the incredible achievements of our youth!

👉 Learn more about Round Table and the incredible work they do: https://www.tauntonroundtable.org/about/

07/03/2025

⚠️ FINAL 48 HOURS! ⚠️

This is it! Your absolute LAST CHANCE to nominate an extraordinary young person for the Pride of Somerset Youth Awards 2025.

Nominations close on Monday 10 March. Don't let their story go untold.

👉 Nominate NOW: https://buff.ly/vHJZ1xC

03/03/2025

✨ Spread the Joy! One More Week to Nominate! ✨

We've heard you - to give everyone more time to share their stories of inspiring young people in Somerset communities, we're extending the Pride of Somerset Youth Awards deadline to Monday 10 March.

We've been blown away by the nominations so far, and want to give everyone a chance to nominate. Give a deserving young person the recognition they deserve!

If you've haven't yet submitted your nomination, this is your sign to do so - this will be the only extension. Don't miss out.

👉 Nominate here: https://buff.ly/vHJZ1xC

Bounce Forward Morledge & Co - Communications & PR PROMISEworks County Gazette Somerset Day Young Somerset Taunton Rotary UK Yeo Valley Somerset Larder Avon and Somerset Police Bridgwater & Taunton College University Centre Somerset

28/02/2025

🌟 Who Will Be Somerset's Next Young Person of the Year? 🌟

The Pride of Somerset Youth Awards are searching for an inspiring young individual to join the ranks of our past Young Person of the Year winners. This is more than an award; it's a legacy of excellence, dedication, and positive change.

Nominations close THIS COMING MONDAY! This is your last chance to nominate a young person who embodies these qualities and deserves to be celebrated.

👉 Don't let their incredible story go untold. Nominate them today: https://buff.ly/4hwhUpe

A huge thank you to PROMISEworks for sponsoring this prestigious award. Together, we are championing the next generation of leaders and change-makers in Somerset.

📸 In 2024, Ellie Bealing was recognised for how she puts maximum effort into everything she does. This culminated in her speaking at the House of Commons, highlighting the disparity of experience between young people in Somerset vs. other, less rural areas. As a member of Youth Parliament, Ellie is destined to continue making a huge impact, both locally, and on a larger scale. Inspirational ✨

27/02/2025

Celebrating Sporting Stars! 🏆

The Sporting Achievement Award, sponsored by Passion for Somerset & Somerset Day, recognises young athletes who have demonstrated exceptional talent, dedication, and sportsmanship.

Whether they excel individually or as part of a team, these young people inspire us with their commitment and achievements.

👉 Know a rising sports star? Nominate them today: https://buff.ly/4hwhUpe

We're thrilled to have Passion for Somerset & Somerset Day as a sponsor, supporting young talent and promoting a healthy, active lifestyle in Somerset.

📸 Last year, we celebrated Theo Gundry-White, an outstanding trampolinist who has captivated audiences with his performances. From representing his local college to being actively involved with British Gymnastics and England Gymnastics, Theo also finds time to be a volunteer coach at Quayside Trampolining Club and in various local schools.

26/02/2025

Honouring Exceptional Service! 🌟

The Sandy Padgett Award, sponsored by Avon and Somerset Police, recognises young individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to their community, embodying the spirit of dedication and service.

This award celebrates the legacy of Chief Superintendent Sandy Padgett.

👉 Know a young person making a real difference? Nominate them now: https://buff.ly/3X3mjIq

Thank you to Avon and Somerset Police for their partnership and for helping us recognise these extraordinary young people.

📸 In 2024, we presented this award to the incredible ZP4 - a group of young people who came together to mark the passing of their close friend, Zach. They set out to visit all 20 Premier League stadiums, plus Wembley, within 60 hours - a dream of the late Zach. They've raised a huge sum of money for a memorial fund, aiming to construct an astro pitch where Zach's brother, friends, and community can gather and enjoy.

25/02/2025

Celebrating Academic Excellence! 📚

The Peter Renshaw Outstanding Educational Achiever Award, sponsored by Taunton Rotary UK, recognises young people who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and achievement in their education.

This new award for 2025 honours the memory of Peter Renshaw and celebrates a passion for learning.

👉 Know a student who shines bright? Nominate them today: https://buff.ly/4hwhUpe

We're deeply grateful to Taunton Rotary UK for their support of young people and their commitment to education.

24/02/2025

✨ Make a difference in a young person's life! ✨

Nominations for the Pride of Somerset Youth Awards close in just ONE WEEK!

Don't miss this opportunity to recognise their hard work and dedication. It takes just a few minutes to nominate, and you'll make someone's day. Let's showcase the talent and community-spirit of Somerset! 💪

👉 Nominate a young person today: https://buff.ly/4hwhUpe

The Pride of Somerset Youth Awards honours the remarkable achievements of young people across Somerset.

21/02/2025

Celebrating Bravery! 💪

The Outstanding Courage Award, sponsored by Somerset Larder, honours young individuals who have shown exceptional courage in the face of adversity.

These inspiring young people have overcome challenges, helped others, and demonstrated incredible strength of character.

👉 Know someone who deserves this recognition? Nominate them today: https://buff.ly/4hwhUpe

Thank you to Somerset Larder for supporting this award and helping us celebrate the resilience and bravery of Somerset's youth.

📸 In 2024, we honoured Theo Trevor Eades, who was born with an undiagnosed cleft pallet resulting in 14 surgeries to rectify both the hole in his pallet and numerous other issues in just 9 years of life. He demonstrated incredible resilience and bravery, and his mature outlook is nothing short of outstanding. With a smile, he simply 'gets on with it'. Somerset continues to be proud of you, Theo!

19/02/2025

♻️ Do you know a young person who's passionate about recycling, conservation, or sustainability?

The Environmental Award, proudly sponsored by Yeo Valley, recognises young individuals and groups who are passionate about protecting our planet.

From conservation efforts to sustainable initiatives, these young environmentalists are making a real difference.

👉 Know a young eco-warrior? Nominate them today: https://buff.ly/4hwhUpe

We're incredibly grateful to Yeo Valley for their commitment to sustainability and for sponsoring this important award.

📸 Last year, Daniel Lee Barnett displayed his immense passion in the fields of nature and cryptozoology. Daniel's enthusiasm for research and study has led to features in the national press, the release of his very own book, teaching a Science class to Autistic teenagers in New Mexico, and a guest speaking spot at conventions in the USA attended by over 5000 scientists and researchers!

17/02/2025

Local Heroes Wanted! 🌟

The Community Hero Award, sponsored by Bridgwater & Taunton College, celebrates young people who are making their corner of Somerset a better place.

Whether it's through environmental initiatives, organising events, or simply acts of kindness, these young individuals are true community champions.

👉 Know someone who fits the bill? Nominate them here: https://buff.ly/4hwhUpe

A huge thank you to Bridgwater & Taunton College for their ongoing support and for helping us shine a light on these inspiring young people.

📸 In 2024, Josh Harvey wowed us with his long list of community focussed roles and initiatives. Josh is a volunteer coach to young footballers in Burnham-on-Sea, is the Vice Chairman of the Burnham Town Board (Better BOS), an active member of the BTC Student Union, an East Huntspill Parish Councillor, a member of the Burnham Bus-Users Group AND completes charity runs and fundraising activities... what a repertoire!

13/02/2025

Celebrating Selfless Service! 🌈💕

The Charity/Volunteer Hero Award, sponsored by Young Somerset, is all about recognising young people who go above and beyond to help others.

👉 From fundraising to community projects, these young volunteers are making a tangible difference in Somerset. Know a young person making a positive impact? Nominate them today: https://buff.ly/4hwhUpe

We're so thankful for Young Somerset's dedication to empowering young people and their sponsorship of this vital award.

📸 Last year, Archie and Jack Boobyer were recognised for their work supporting Josephine's Star, a local charity that supports bereaved children and families. They raised over £7000 for the charity, taking part in a '3 peaks challenge' alongside some friends of their dad, who sadly passed away in 2022.

13/02/2025

Somerset Day isn't too far away! ✨

So many incredible events showcasing what a fantastic county Somerset is.

💖Click below to start making plans!

💛❤️ We’re kickstarting our Somerset Day preparations! 🍎🍏

Today marks three months until the 11th May so now is the time to start making plans 📅

Whether you’re a business, community group, or charity, there are so many ways to be a part of the action:

🏪 Businesses: Use Somerset Day as a chance to raise your business profile.

🏡 Communities: Host a Big Somerset Picnic, organise a May Fayre, or simply string up the Somerset flag bunting.

💙 Charities: Use Somerset Day as a fundraising opportunity!

✨ Somerset Day is for everyone. What’s on this year? ✨
Our headline events for 2025 include:

🎤 Barrel & Bloom Festival: Save the Date: A brand-new day of music, entertainment and family fun hosted at Rich's Cider Farm.

🍽️ The Big Somerset Picnic: Get together and raise funds for a local cause.

🥖 eat:Taunton: The best of local food & drink all in one place organised by eat Festivals.

New events are being added from now until the weekend of Somerset Day.

Now’s the time to plan your event, spread the word, and make this the biggest Somerset Day yet!

🔗 Find out how you can take part and register your event for free promotion here: www.somersetday.com

12/02/2025

Mind Matters! 🧠💖

The Championing Positive Mental Health Award, proudly sponsored by Bounce Forward, recognises young people in Somerset who are making a real difference in promoting mental wellbeing.

👉 These champions are breaking down stigma, offering support, and inspiring others to prioritise their mental health. Know a young person who's a mental health advocate? Nominate them today: https://buff.ly/4hwhUpe

A massive thank you to Bounce Forward for their partnership! Their commitment to young people's mental health makes this award possible.

📸 In 2024, we were inspired by Freya Gudge, who - alongside her brother - ran 30 half marathons in 30 days in honour of their Dad, and to raise money for CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably).

11/02/2025

🔆 Spotlight on Compassion! 💡

The Care Award shines a light on the unsung heroes of our community: young caregivers.

Sponsored by the County Gazette, this award honours those who dedicate their time and hearts to caring for others, showing incredible empathy and selflessness.

👉 Do you know a young person who provides exceptional care to a family member, friend, or neighbour? Nominate them today and let their kindness be celebrated: https://buff.ly/4hwhUpe

We're deeply grateful to the County Gazette for their support. They help us recognise these incredible young people, whose compassion makes a world of difference.

📸 Last year, we celebrated Leah Spanwick, who at 14-years-old at the time of her award win, has been caring for her wheelchair bound mum for 8 years whilst making a real difference as a cadet for St. Johns Ambulance. What an inspiration! ✨

04/02/2025

🎨 We're proud to present the Art & Culture Award, sponsored by Morledge and Co.!

This award celebrates young individuals who have shown exceptional creativity, skills, and dedication in the Arts.

Whether they excel in painting, music, theatre, dance, or any other art form, we want to recognise their talent and contribution to Somerset's vibrant culture scene.

👉 Nominate today: https://buff.ly/4hwhUpe

A heartfelt thank you to Morledge and Co. for sponsoring this award. Your support allows us to celebrate the incredible artistic talents or young people in our communities, and inspires the next generation of artists ✨

⏰ In 2024, Ernie Shorten took home the Art & Culture Award for his incredible contributions to , a nationally renowned arts organisation based in Porlock. He was also the first dancer from Somerset in 10 years to secure a place in the NYDC!

Pictures show Ernie and co. at our 2024 Awards Ceremony at The McMillan Theatre.

31/01/2025

Nominate Your Local Hero! ✨ The Pride of Somerset Youth Awards are Back!

The Pride of Somerset Youth Awards 2025 are here, and we're on the hunt for inspiring young people (under 21) who are making a difference in our communities!

Know an amazing young person in Somerset who deserves to be celebrated? Maybe they've:

🤗 Shown incredible courage or kindness?
📈 Achieved something fantastic in sports, arts, or at school?
💕 Made a positive impact on their community or the environment?
🗣️ Simply made you incredibly proud?

Now's your chance to give them the recognition they deserve! Nominate them for a Pride of Somerset Youth Award: https://buff.ly/4hwhUpe

It's easy to nominate, and it could make a huge difference to a deserving young person's life.

Let's celebrate Somerset's brightest young stars!

With thanks to our sponsors:
Bridgwater & Taunton College Somerset Day Bounce Forward Somerset Larder County Gazette Young Somerset Avon and Somerset Police Yeo Valley PROMISEworks