A young man from Downpatrick who turned his life around with help from youth charity, The Prince’s Trust, has won an award that recognised how he overcame barriers and developed new skills to improve his education prospects.
Matthew Broome, 16, picked up the Northgate Managed Services Educational Achiever of the Year Award, at The Prince’s Trust and L’Oréal Paris Celebrate Success Awards (held on 9th November 2011) which were attended by an audience of more than 300 people.
“I am so proud to have won this award,” says Matthew. “When I signed up for the Club at school, I never dreamed I would be standing here today accepting this trophy in front of all these people. Now that I’ve got two GCSEs and Essential Skills qualifications in English and Maths, I know I’ve got what it takes to do better at school and make something of myself.”
Speaking at the Awards, Ian Jeffers, Director of The Prince’s Trust in Northern Ireland said, “These awards are just one way we demonstrate that with a bit of support and encouragement we can inspire thousands of local young people to choose a positive path through life.
“This year over 3,000 young people will take part in Prince’s Trust programmes in Northern Ireland. At least 3 out of every 4 will go on to employment, education or training. We can only continue to deliver this great work with the loyal support of our volunteer mentors, supporters, funders, delivery partners and staff.
“I am particularly pleased that Invest Northern Ireland has continued to support our work in Northern Ireland and thank them together with all our sponsors for making this event such a success. The young people that have won an award and those that are taking control of their lives are our inspiration.”
The Prince’s Trust and L’Oréal Paris Celebrate Success Awards honour the achievements of disadvantaged young people supported by The Trust who have succeeded against the odds, improved their chances in life and had a positive impact on their local community.
Youth charity The Prince's Trust gives disadvantaged young people the skills and confidence to find a job. More than three in four young people helped by The Prince’s Trust move into work training or education. The Prince’s Trust needs almost £1 million a week to continue its vital work.