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For six years now we have had the honour and privilege of watching young people walk through our doors and wow us with their dedication, commitment, and brilliant personalities! 2024 has not been an easy year for many organisations, families or young people, but as ever, Chorley’s community has rallied together to make sure that there is a safe space, accessible to all, where there is everything from a hot cooked meal to a world of new opportunities available.
We have seen the biggest increase in demand for our services over the past two months, but still… no matter what is going on in the outside world, young people continue to inspire us with their determination and resilience every single day.
The awards are about recognising the achievements and journeys and crediting those who have made a real difference to both their own lives and others. A huge congratulations goes to each nominee, every single one of you deserves to be recognised and every single one of you should be so proud of yourselves.
We’d just like to say a huge thank you to all of the award sponsors who have made tonight possible. It means so much to be able to celebrate these successes in any way, but thanks to your support we have been able to make it an extra special night for all involved.
All our nominees for each category should be so proud of themselves. We as staff are so very proud of each one of you and are so excited for what the future holds for you.
A young person who, despite having faced personal obstacles, is showing great resilience
RILEY HOLDEN
When Riley started at Inspire he was quite nervous, but it didn’t take him long to make new friends. His friendly and caring nature helped him quickly become a part of the youth zone and his sense of humour always brings a smile to those around him. Riley is always polite and respectful to the staff and eager to get involved in various activities. He’s become a valued member of Inspire and is always willing to help others and spread positivity.
JOSH HAEGER
Josh is just an all around amazing young person and a pleasure to have on EPICs and session! From seeing him first start on the sewing EPIC to attending junior session and building relationships with youth workers especially in the Makers Zone and Art room. Despite having personal obstacles regarding his health, Josh is one of the most engaged, positive and creative young people. He does not let anything get in the way of him and his creativity – he is always thinking of something new and always puts his all into his work.
KAYLA
The amount of strength and resilience Kayla has shown over the last 2 years is nothing short of amazing. Things have not been easy, but she has handled everything with so much courage. It’s truly inspiring to see how she’s pushed through obstacles and always finds a positive in all situations. She has been the best big sister, and they are so lucky to have her looking out for them. Kayla has settled so much these last few months, and everyone can see the progress she is making each day / week. Kayla – keep believing in yourself and know that your strength will carry you through anything that comes your way! Well done, we are so so so proud of you!
A young person who is always happy and upbeat, kind to everyone and a general pleasure to be around
SETH ASTIN
What to say about our Seth? He is the life and soul of every session he comes to. Everyone knows his name and signature phrases even if they don’t work with him. I have never met someone so competitive and so unbothered about gloating that he has beaten you. Seth brings pure joy everywhere he goes; he is constantly pushing himself to exceed even his own expectations. Since starting with us he has built lovely friendships on our Sunday sessions, he has become a pro-basketballer whilst attending our wheelchair basketball sessions on our EPIC Projects. He is always the cheekiest chap in the room and the one who gives the best hugs and strongest high fives. Inspire would not the be the same without Seth Astin!
TOMMY MITCHELL
Throughout his time at Inspire, Tommy has always enjoyed coming into Be Loud. His enthusiasm to get involved and his sense of humour always made him stand out! Around 2 years ago, he started to take an interest in singing and performing and instantly we noticed he sang with such passion and enjoyment, which is so rare to see in people so young! Every single time he gets on that stage, he captures the attention of everybody in the audience! Tommy is an absolute legend at Inspire and above that, he is a brilliant little dude!
MOSTAFA SALEH
Over this last year Mostafa has lit up our youth zone. His night consists of cleaning the café out of food with his regular 5 course dinner and fuelling up before a full night of dancing and loving life. Mostafa’s presence and positivity is felt by all young people and staff he comes into contact with. The impact he has on session consistently having a smile on his face with excitement in his eyes and the time of day for anyone that wants/needs it each evening is admirable.
A young person who has shown dedication and skill in music, dance or arts
RUBY WHITTLE
It’s been amazing to watch Ruby grow both as a person and with her talent for Musical Theatre. She’s grown in confidence so much in the space of one year when we started Musical Theatre, smashing her recent role as Nala in the Lion King! I can’t wait to see where she’s at next year. It’s been a delight to work with Ruby, she’s a real superstar!
LEWIS LEIGH
Lewis has come so far this year as a performer. From finishing his Performing Arts course at college, to his role in the Lion King, Lewis is almost unrecognisable in his new found confidence! He always comes in and is determined to practice and better himself with performing, and it is that dedication that will take him far. We are so proud of him and all he has achieved! Congratulations Lewis, keep shining!
KAYLA WALSH
Kayla started her Inspire journey attending family day, and very quickly began attending senior sessions. She has from day one thrown herself into any clay or creative challenge I set her, and has created some amazing pieces, many of which were displayed at the Makers Festival. She is always keen to try new techniques, and brings her own ideas and projects to sessions. She has quickly made friends at Inspire, and is fantastic at making other young people feel included and enthusiastic about engaging in activities. Kayla has recently joined trips for Burberry and to Potfest, proudly showing photographs of her pieces to ceramic artists and discussing her makes. She is an absolute joy to have in Be Creative, and also always voluntarily helps out in Be Tasty when she comes in on family day. I can’t wait to see where her many skills take her in the future.
A young person who demonstrates the Inspire Values and is an inspiration to others
JAKE POWELL
Jake is a pleasure to be around at Inspire. Jake’s ability to socialise and make friends has quickly seen him become a fan favourite with our senior members. Jake is the sort of young person that has time for anyone and sees the positive in all people and situations. His care and personality have really shone at Inspire this year and we can’t wait to see his further progression and what is in store for Jake Powell.
JACK WADMORE
Jack is the HAMA BEAD KING! His creative ideas are legendary in Inspire, he works so hard each and every week to create his designs. His commitment to the designs is unmatched and he is always looking at how he can make them even better – even though I don’t think this is possible. Jack has built some lovely relationships on our Sunday sessions with staff and other young people he is always there for others when they need a helping hand. However, he does love to jump scare staff that’s his specialty. Jack’s always supportive of everyone and loves to celebrate their wins just as much as his own. Jack you are an absolute asset to our Sunday sessions.
BILLY WATSON
Billy is an amazing young person to have at Inspire. He always has a smile on his face and goes above and beyond to help each staff member out on session. Billy continuously engages in all activities we have on offer and is keen to do extra when he can. The staff team constantly feedback that Billy has been a stand out young person on session and always brings out his amazing personality. We couldn’t ask any more of Billy and he has always been a role model to other members on session. Keep up the hard work Billy.
A young person who is always looking to help out and provides brilliant assistance to staff
ABBIE LIVESEY
Abbie is an absolute delight to have on session! She is so helpful not just on universal sessions, but in our Cheer EPIC where she has become our Assistant Cheer Coach and not only helps lead sessions, but also is a brilliant and supportive role model to some of our younger members in our cheer group, always helping and encouraging them. You are an absolute star Abbie, keep being you!
MUHAMMED KAYA
Congratulations on this nomination Muhammed, we are proud of how far you have come and how you have showed control and resilience at times when you have been faced with challenges. Your enthusiasm for helping members of staff when jobs need to be done is amazing. You have especially shown a real flare in the teaching kitchen with some outstanding skills when making many of the recipes. Having you in the teaching kitchen has helped to influence and guide some of our other young people. You’re such a good example for the other young people who access the teaching kitchen.
ISAAC CAUNCE
Isaac is an amazing young person and he is one of the most creative and engaged young people we have on session. Each SEND session he comes in with a new idea and he can bring any idea to life because he is focused and determined to create something amazing. He is also an amazing help on session, he is patient and understanding to other young people and their needs. Isaac is so kind and has a nurturing nature, he naturally puts the other young people before him and is beyond helpful to staff. He is just a pleasure to have on session!
A young person who has made progress in their own personal journey
TOM STENNING
Tom is a remarkable young person who has been pushing himself outside his comfort zone on his own personal journey at Inspire. He has taken the initiative to get involved with different groups and programmes and he has made new friends along the way. Tom is always polite and respectful to staff and his peers. He is creative, intelligent, and full of ideas. We are incredibly proud of his achievements and he should be too. His hard work and determination have made us truly proud.
COOPER LOVE
Cooper is absolutely amazing to have on session, he’s come so far not only with what he gets up to on sessions but in himself too. When I first started SEND sessions nearly two years ago, Cooper kept to himself and was just all about football. Now, when he’s in on sessions, he engages with almost all of the kids in on that day and is extremely talkative. It’s always such a nice part of the day when he comes in with a massive smile on his face and hearing about what he’s gotten up to; it’s mostly beating his parents at uno or playing football but nevertheless it’s been a privilege to watch him grow and I can’t wait to see how much further he grows as a person and as a valued member of Inspire.
ARCHIE LANE
Archie has shown so much personal growth during his time at Inspire. It’s really inspiring to see how he’s overcome obstacles along the way. Each challenge he’s faced has not only made him stronger and more resilient, but his ability to navigate through tough situations demonstrates his determination and commitment to personal growth. Keep pushing forward we’re so excited to see you smash your new journey at your new school. You’re amazing Archie, don’t let anyone tell you otherwise! We are so proud of you and we know your family are too!
A young person that works really well in a team and encourages others to get involved and try out the sport
ASTON WALKER
Aston has worked really well in a team environment this year, from helping others on universal session to representing Inspire in our junior football team. Aston always has a positive attitude and keeps the team’s spirits high when playing in a competitive environment. He has played in several fixtures and tournaments and staff members always comment on his continuous hard work. He is always up for getting involved in every sporting activity and always works well within a team. Well done Aston keep up your hard work!
SCARLETT ASHWORTH
Scarlett has been a great addition to Inspire over the last year. She has engaged in every sport we have had on offer and is always up for trying something new! During netball she has progressed her skills and developed her confidence to help others within the club, whilst being a fantastic role model in the process. Scarlett has made a huge impact to our senior sessions and has been nominated for member of the night by the staff team on several occasions. She is an all-rounder and shines around the youth zone well done Scarlett.
JACOB BOWKER
Jacob is absolutely amazing to have on session. He is always there to give a helping hand to peers and staff members. Jacob is always full of energy and always wants to get involved with everything we run in the sports hall. He always takes part in challenges and loves helping run an assault course and getting other young people involved. Jacob continuously offers support and works really well in a team environment. He brings out the best in others and always has a smile on his face. Jacob is a great role model for others, and he could be our next Inspire sports Worker!!!
A young person engaged with an Inspire Pathways programme, overcoming barriers to transform their life
ISOBELLE CHEETHAM
Isobelle has been an absolute pleasure to work with in schools. She took part in our Block Based Therapy programme earlier this year and her confidence / social skills have come on such a long way. Isobelle is always one of the first to help out when she can and will look out for any one that might be struggling. Isobelle sometimes attends our SEND sessions on a Sunday and will get engaged with all the activities we have on offer as well as making new friends. Isobelle you are a SUPERSTAR!!
GEORGIA GREENHALGH
Georgia hasn’t been at Inspire long but has shown real bravery throwing herself into EPIC groups and always being present-she is always willing to try new activities. Since being at Inspire, Georgia has learnt many new things and remained open minded and eager to continue expanding her skills. She is always helpful and polite to staff and her lovely personality shines through in everything she does. Georgia is a pleasure to be around and her positive attitude makes her a valued member of Inspire.
TALISHA GREEN
Talisha has been an amazing young person to work with over the last year. Seeing how far she has come from when I first met her is outstanding. Talisha was quite shy and didn’t know many of the other members but then signed up for our Duke of Edinburgh Bronze award. She is on her final stages of completing the award and has come out of her shell massively. Talisha has now formed strong friendships with other young people on the award and has completed her volunteering with Inspire as a Young Leader. We hope Talisha continues to attend our senior sessions and gets involved with other pathways in the future. Massive Well-done Talisha!
A young leader who is on/or has completed the young leaders programme and become a positive role model within Inspire
MARYAM HAMAM
Maryam is an exceptional young leader and a valuable role model. She consistently supports both staff and young people, frequently earning recognition as “Staff Member of the Session” due to her helpful and approachable nature. While she contributes across various areas, Maryam particularly excels in sports, where her enthusiasm and skill stand out – her commitment was particularly evident in our Snow Camp programme. Thank you Maryam for your continuous helpfulness and positivity.
PHOEBE MESKELL
Three things come mind when I think of Phoebe – committed, passionate & conscientious. It has been a pleasure to get to know her and see her grow and gain confidence in all she has tackled while being a Young Leader here at Inspire. She’s a huge positive role model for all young people she comes in to contact with. Phoebe has flourished in the Duke of Edinburgh Award & the Netball Team here at Inspire, giving her new skills and the confidence to meet new people and new friends too.
BEN WHITWELL
Ben successfully completed his Duke of Edinburgh qualifying expedition, showing impressive adaptability and teamwork despite joining without knowing anyone. He quickly engaged with others and became a valuable team member throughout the expedition. Ben has also completed his Young Leader training and brings exceptional energy to every session. From the moment he arrives until he leaves, Ben’s enthusiasm and positive attitude—always with a smile-makes him an invaluable part of the team. Ben – we are so pleased that you are continuing to volunteer with us.
A young person who has made a really positive contribution to their local community, not just Inspire
JASHAANI ELILVATHANAN
Jashaani is an absolute delight to have as part of the Inspire Community Ambassadors Project. Her positive energy is infectious, and she consistently uplifts and encourages her fellow young people. Whether it’s an early morning litter pick at 8 a.m. on a Sunday or revitalizing a flower bed, Jashaani approaches every social action project with remarkable enthusiasm and dedication. She completed her Leadership ASDAN qualification at Inspire with the same level of hard work and passion. Jashaani truly embodies what it means to be an ambassador for the community, and we are incredibly proud of her outstanding efforts.
JOSH COYNE
Josh may be the youngest member of our Community Ambassadors, but you’d never guess it from his maturity and impact. It has been an absolute pleasure to watch him grow and thrive in this project. He pours his creative energy into every community action project, and his talents really shine, especially when he’s baking for our bake sales! Josh always maintains a positive outlook and brings a can-do attitude to everything he does. His determination and hard work led him to successfully complete his Leadership ASDAN qualification, a true testament to his dedication.
MELISSA PARKINSON
Melissa is always involved in everything Inspire, but is also an amazing representative of Inspire in the local community. Melissa has been involved in many different projects including getting her ASDAN qualification, being a Community Ambassador and a DofE Young Leader. She is always looking for new opportunities to help Inspire! Whether it be litter picking or helping at Adlington Carnival, she is always a smiling and bright face in the community representing Inspire. She is just a pleasure to have around, constantly laughing and dancing and just a ray of sunshine!
A young person who has gone into employment, training or education to reshape their future
REBECCA MORTIMER BANKS
Rebecca is such an intelligent, caring and helpful young person. Her recent transition to college has had it challenges, but Rebecca has strived to be the best she can be, showing resilience and determination to further her education. She has overcome so much, and enthusiastically works on small challenges on session to help to progress her personal journey. She is increasingly vocal about what she wants to engage with on session, creating with other young people the “Great Minds Think Differently” group, working on self confidence, mindfulness and a new youth led monthly Book Club.
DECLAN SANSOM
Declan has been a member of Inspire since the doors opened in May 2018. Across that time we have watched Dec progress and develop as a young person into a young adult. Dec is a talented footballer as well as an incredibly well mannered young lad who has been a huge personality in the youth zone. Dec now doesn’t attend Inspire but does drop in from time to time to give us an update on how him and his family are getting on. It makes us feel very old but Dec should be proud of the young man he is today and all of what he has achieved.
LEE MEREDITH
Lee is an amazing young person who is always wanting to be involved in everything at Inspire. He is doing so well not only at Inspire, but also at college and is working on improving his skills and giving himself new pathways! Lee is also participating in the Snow Camp programme. During this he has completed his ASDAN course in Sports and Fitness, and now he is working on his Graduate Programme where he is developing his life skills and snowboarding skills. Lee is really committed to giving himself these amazing life experiences and opportunities for his future despite having personal challenges to overcome.
A young person who has broken through personal barriers and come out the other side
RILEY PROUDFOOT
Riley has come on so much over the last year. If you compared Riley to where he was a year ago to now you would see a completely different person. Riley is a fantastic individual that loves to get involved with anything active at Inspire. He has a big personality that the Inspire staff team absolutely love! Riley is now able to stay for a full session and engages with all activities on offer. He is described as a funny and cheeky individual that brings the energy to session.
CARLIE CASSIDY
Where do we start with Carlie Cassidy? If you look at the progress Carlie has made over her 6 years at Inspire, she is unrecognisable! From lacking the confidence to venture into many rooms at Inspire, to breaking through that wall and trying new things and pushing herself out of her comfort zone. She found her feet in sports joining in with the Netball Club and found herself at her happiest when in Dance and Drama, recently taking on the role as Sarabi in our production of the Lion King over the summer! With the confidence and passion she is finding for creating, directing and performing, she truly has a bright and exciting future ahead of her! We are all so proud of all the amazing things you are accomplishing Carlie, congratulations!
ALFIE COLINS
From coming into music for the first time being a very quiet young man who had just started to play guitar, to now playing an awesome set live with his friends at Chorley Live, Alfie is an absolute pleasure to work with. His growth on both his instrument as well as his confidence is nothing short of spectacular. His effort and determination to always learn and better himself is amazing to see at such a young age. His manners and his attitude are always second to none and I am immensely proud of the man he is growing to be!
CARLY MCCREA-BAKKE
Carly is a shining of example of how challenges can make a person stronger. Carly has shown time and time again how strength of character coupled with a positive outlet can push you forward despite setbacks. When Carly’s focused on her music and helping others she is capable of great things. This year, Carly has demonstrated this time and time again. Albeit with the occasional minor setback, this truly has been a breakthrough year for her. She is a credit to both her family and her friends and she should be as proud of herself as we are of her!
A volunteer who has stood out due to their commitment and energy on session
STEVE
Steve joined the mentor programme at the very beginning and gives 110% to his role as a mentor. Steve has supported 3 young people so far and is just about to start another journey with a new young person. Steve brings his enthusiasm, life experience, and dedication to supporting young people to every session. Now expanding his work with us, Steve is sharing his amazing knowledge by delivering an EPIC in landscape gardening! Steve is passionate about supporting young people and that comes across in everything he does.
HELEN
Helen is a huge asset to Inspire. Since joining us in July she has given an amazing 55 hours of her time. She fully engages with the young people bringing in exciting new projects and helping them to develop their skills in arts & crafts. She is so versatile and willing to give anything a go, she joins in with our special events and assists with our detached sessions when needed. We love her passion and her enthusiasm, and we are very thankful she is part of our team.
TINA
Tina is a well-loved individual at our Adlington satellite hub who selflessly supports and empowers young people in their community and safe space. This award honours Tina who invests her time, energy, and passion to uplifting the children at the youth club, helping them to overcome challenges and realise their potential. Her impactful work not only transforms their lives but also strengthens communities which they live, inspiring future generations to become engaged. The young people absolutely adore Tina, and we can’t thank her enough for the work she does.
A young person who is a general pleasure to have in the centre at all times. They summarise what Inspire is all about, just by being themselves!
LILY PETERS
It has been a pleasure to witness Lily’s journey at Inspire. She began attending our Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) program last summer as a quiet member who required youth worker support to engage in activities. Since then, Lily has participated in more projects at Inspire, including our wellbeing sessions that focused on the five ways to wellbeing. Furthermore, we had the opportunity to work with her in school through our EmpowHer programme, which focused on topics such as friendships, wellbeing, and self-esteem. Lily fully engaged in all aspects of the programme, and the positive transformation we’ve witnessed in her has been remarkable. The one thing that really stands out about Lily is her genuine love of Inspire, she always has a lovely smile when she sees the staff on sessions. Over the past year, Lily has truly flourished, developing her resilience and becoming a more confident member of Inspire. We look forward to supporting her continued growth and development at Inspire.
ETHAN LANCASTER
Over the last year Ethan has taken the step moving over from our junior club into our senior club. Ethan has completely taken this in his stride and it goes to show just how much of a confident, funny and charismatic young person Ethan is. Ethan has been described by staff as happy, funny, cheeky and overall a pleasure to be around. Ethan always gives 110% on session and is always up for trying something new. He is a great role model for other juniors moving up to seniors and always offers a helping hand. Ethan always has a smile on his face and always makes an effort to ask how staff are and if they need help doing anything. He spends a lot of his time down in football and continuously engages within the session. Ethan is a fantastic goal keeper and wants to get involved in the senior football team in the future that just shows how much Ethan is committed to Inspire.
A huge well done to all our nominees and a big thank you to everyone who made tonight possible. alongside the awards tonight we also had performances from…
Tommy Mitchell
The Carly McCrea Experience
Ruby Whittle
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Matt Hirst is the CEO of leading energy technology provider ESG with over 700 staff and operations in the USA, Canada and the UK. ESG’s UK headquarters are based in Chorley, Lancashire.
ESG empowers global leaders in energy to deliver on the future promise of energy through its SAAS solutions for Customer and Market Data Management and Smart Metering. Matt has a background in Sales and Marketing and led a MBO of UK company Utiligroup in 2014 before it was acquired by ESG in 2017 and has been with the business for 24 years. Matt won an EY Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2016 as well as being a judge in 2018 and in 2017 his team was awarded the UK Regional and National Mid Market Management Team of the Year awards by the BVCA. Matt holds a BSc (Hons) degree from The University of Salford and a MBA from Lancaster University.
Hi, I’m Ryan and I’m the Head of Operations at Inspire Youth Zone.
Email: ryan.powell@inspireyouthzone.org
