YOUNG people who have been in care most of their lives have been celebrated at a very special event, held at the Guildhall in Derry.
The inaugural Celebration of Success Awards was hosted by the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr. Maoliosa McHugh, in association with the Western Trust and VOYPIC.
It recognised the achievements of young care leavers, aged 16 years old and over.
Arranged to coincide with Northern Ireland Care Day (16 February), the first ever awards event applauded the individual achievements of each young person.
Whether it was a training qualification received, good exam results, employment gained or success on the sports field, an award was presented to further recognise their hard work and efforts.
The awards were attended and presented by special guest, Derry Girls, Jamie-Lee O’Donnell, Chairman of the Western Trust, Mr Niall Birthistle, Chief Executive, Dr Anne Killgallen, Director of Women and Childrens Services, Mr Kieran Downey, Professor Mary McColgan, Ulster University and Donna O’Kane from VOYPIC.
