Inspired Awards 2026
What a year it’s been at Inspire!
Over the past 12 months, we’ve welcomed thousands of young people through our doors, shared incredible experiences, made memories, discovered new opportunities and continued to take Inspire further into our communities. We’ve seen friendships grow, confidence develop and young people achieve things they may never have thought possible.
But of everything we’ve achieved this year, nothing makes us prouder than the young people we get to celebrate.
One of the things that makes Inspire so special is that success looks different for everyone. For some, it’s finding the confidence to walk through our doors for the first time. For others, it’s discovering a new talent, trying something completely outside their comfort zone or overcoming a personal challenge.
Whatever that achievement looks like, it matters. And it’s those moments, both big and small, that remind us why we do what we do.
These awards are all about recognising those journeys and celebrating the incredible individuals behind them.
To every young person nominated for an Inspired Award, congratulations. Your determination, kindness, courage, resilience and individuality are what make Inspire the place it is. You should be incredibly proud of yourselves, not just for what you’ve achieved, but for the people you’re becoming.
Never underestimate how far you’ve come, the difference you make to those around you or what you’re capable of achieving next. We see your potential every day, and we couldn’t be prouder to be part of your journey.
We also want to say a huge thank you to our families, our incredible Green Team and our generous award sponsors. Your support and belief in our young people make everything we do possible. Thank you for helping us create opportunities that give our young people the space to shine.
At Inspire, we know that every young person has something special to offer. This is our opportunity to recognise that and remind them just how much they are valued.
So, enjoy every moment, celebrate each other and make memories to look back on with pride.
Awards Night is your night. Be proud of how far you’ve come, excited about where you’re going and, most importantly, never stop believing in what you can achieve.
Rowland Homes’ All in award - Adam
A young person who always tries their best, works hard and takes action to help others and make the world a better place.
Joshua Bleasdale
On the basketball court, JJ could easily focus on his own game. Instead, he makes sure younger, less experienced players get a chance to enjoy theirs too. Always happy to share a tip, offer encouragement or bring someone into the game, he’s helped make the sports hall a welcoming place for everyone. JJ combines his love of basketball with a genuine care for the people playing alongside him – and that’s what makes him perfect for this award.
Adam Wilde
When Adam first joined Inspire, he was quiet and reserved. Today, he’s a qualified Level 1 Sports Leader, a familiar helping hand across sessions and the holder of Inspire’s five-second climbing speed record! He attended every single leadership session, despite joining without knowing anyone, and now uses his growing confidence to encourage others. Adam doesn’t seek the spotlight, but his determination, courage and willingness to step up certainly deserve it.
Aston Walker
Moving up to Seniors can feel like a big step, but Aston has taken it in his stride. He’s thrown himself into activities, made new friendships and become someone other Year 7s can look to as they find their feet. It’s the little things that make Aston stand out: his good manners, the respect he shows others and the way he helps people feel included. He makes Seniors a better place simply by being himself.
One Stop Hire’s Inspirational Star Award - Eve
A young person who brings fun and kindness wherever they go. They inspire others to join in, try new things and makes every day brighter!
Eve Cole
As the youngest contestant in Inspire’s Got Talent, Eve took to the stage with her incredible self-taught piano skills and finished third! But her talents go far beyond music. Whether she’s encouraging others in the dance studio or helping nervous Juniors settle into sessions, Eve has a wonderful ability to bring out the best in people. Her confidence, creativity and genuine kindness make her someone others look up to and an inspirational star in every sense.
Sammy Lee
There’s rarely a Thrive session that Sammy doesn’t arrive at with a big smile and a friendly hello for everyone. Whether he’s enjoying the gym, singing in the music room or catching up with his favourite staff members, Sammy brings happiness wherever he goes. Over the past year, he’s also been building his confidence, trying new activities and getting to know more people. His enthusiasm and willingness to try something different are wonderful to see.
Skylar Denver
From being one of our first Home Ed Arts members to representing Inspire at Mudfest, Skylar has certainly made her mark! With two Arts Awards under her belt, she’s shared her creativity with others, led ceramic activities and encouraged friends and siblings to discover new opportunities. But ask anyone who knows Skylar and they’ll tell you it’s her brilliant sense of humour, infectious enthusiasm and ability to make everyone feel included that make her such a special part of Inspire.
Inspire Youth Zone’s Helping Hand Award - Georgia
A young person who makes others feel welcome, works as a team and helps everyone do their best, showing what true support looks like!
Alexis & Jodi Johnson
Alexis and Jodi are a brilliant double act who bring endless energy, laughter and kindness to every Junior session! Over the past year, they’ve grown into two of Inspire’s most enthusiastic helpers, always ready to tidy up, organise games or lend staff a hand. But their kindness doesn’t stop there. They’re equally quick to notice when someone needs support or help a new member feel welcome. With their bubbly personalities and big hearts, these twins make Inspire brighter!
Georgia Weatherston
Whether she’s welcoming a new member, supporting younger artists or helping keep everyone together on a trip to Chester Zoo, Georgia is someone you can always count on. As an Arts Young Leader, she’s shared her creativity at Inspire and beyond, including representing our clay group at Mudfest. But it’s her thoughtful gestures, genuine interest in others and instinct to lend a hand that make Georgia such a treasured part of Inspire.
Ella Christian
Taking the first step onto Inspire’s Dance Leadership Programme wasn’t easy for Ella, but she’s turned those initial nerves into something special. Now a valued young leader, she brings creativity, enthusiasm and fresh ideas to Junior sessions, helping younger members discover their own confidence. Ella also has a wonderful instinct for noticing when someone needs a little extra encouragement or a friendly conversation. Her journey shows just how much kindness and courage can achieve together.
Inspire Youth Zone’s Spotlight Award - Aiden
A young person who brings energy, enthusiasm and positivity to every session. They make days more fun, engaging and inspiring for all!
Jordan Aslam
Jordan is our very own ray of sunshine, bringing smiles, music and plenty of dance moves to every session! The music room is his happy place and he makes sure everyone who walks through its doors feels welcome. Whether he’s creating music, offering to sing alongside someone who’s feeling nervous or cheering on another young performer, Jordan is always encouraging others to shine. His infectious happiness, kindness and enthusiasm make him a joy to have at Inspire.
Aiden Cross
One day, Aiden might be running our Makers Zone or even running the country! With his brilliant imagination and endless curiosity, he’s always designing, experimenting or dreaming up his next creation. From coding and 3D printing to impressing visiting STEM Ambassadors, Aiden’s enthusiasm knows no bounds. He’s just as excited to share his knowledge as he is to learn something new, often inspiring staff and fellow members to think differently and get creative themselves.
Delilah Glover
From finding her feet at Inspire to taking centre stage, Delilah’s journey has been extraordinary. After securing second place in Inspire’s Got Talent 2025, she’s now preparing to play Princess Fiona in our production of Shrek! Behind every performance is a young person whose dedication, hard work and growing confidence have been wonderful to witness. Delilah celebrates others just as enthusiastically as herself, proving that her talent shines just as brightly off stage as it does on.
Gosling Consulting’s Limitless Award - Nova
A young person who’s always learning, trying new things and never afraid to take on a challenge and push themselves and others.
Nova Denver
From her shy steps into our Home Ed Arts group, Nova has blossomed into a confident, adventurous young person with a wonderfully infectious giggle! Moving into Juniors was a big step, but she’s embraced it with courage, making new friends and discovering a whole world of activities. From baking and dancing to climbing and Be Transformed, Nova keeps surprising herself with what she can achieve. Her imagination, determination and growing confidence are something truly special.
Mikey Amos
Mikey brings big energy, brilliant humour and an even bigger heart to Inspire! His love of football has become a fantastic way to channel his enthusiasm, develop his skills and discover just how much he’s capable of achieving. He’s worked hard to grow in confidence and manage challenges, while always finding time to encourage his teammates. Whether he’s giving his all on the pitch or leading a chorus of football chants, Mikey’s determination and team spirit always shines through.
Chloe Jones
Chloe has never been afraid to do things her own way and that’s what makes her remarkable! From exploring engineering to rallying volunteers for our Makers Festival, she throws herself into opportunities with passion and curiosity. This year, she’s also shown incredible independence through Snow Camp, choosing to continue the programme on her own. Every fall on the ski slope has been met with determination to get back up. Chloe’s journey proves that when you commit and push yourself, the possibilities really are limitless.
Telent’s Pathways Pioneer Award - Bobby
A young person who has shown dedication, determination and commitment to developing their skills through Inspire’s Pathways.
Jasmine Rushton
Jasmine is about to make Inspire history as our first young person to achieve a Bronze Arts Award! Working towards this nationally recognised qualification has taken creativity, focus and extraordinary determination. From developing her artistic skills to preparing her own workshop, she’s embraced every challenge while growing in confidence and finding her voice. Jasmine’s journey has helped shape how we deliver this programme meaning her achievements could open doors for others too.
Evie Spencer
Evie has taken everything she’s learned through our Dance Leadership Programme and turned it into something wonderful for our younger members. From producing outstanding coursework to confidently leading activities on Juniors, she’s shown dedication at every stage. Her patience, creativity and natural ability to connect with young people have made her someone the Juniors genuinely look up to. Evie is becoming a great leader and already putting those skills into practice!
Bobby Mellin
From the Makers Zone to the National Youth Orchestra, Bobby’s talents and enthusiasm have taken him on some incredible adventures! A gifted pianist and budding STEM leader, he’s working towards his Level 1 Leadership Skills qualification while sharing his knowledge with younger members. At Cyberfest, his confidence and technical understanding impressed industry professionals, showing just how far his skills have developed. Whether exploring technology or music, Bobby’s curiosity and dedication make him one to watch!
Breakthrough Award in memory of Dave Holt - Zachary
A young person who has overcome challenges with determination, courage and growing self-belief.
Sam Denver
From sharing his creative ideas in our Home Ed group to representing Inspire at Mudfest, Sam has made some wonderful strides in confidence. One particularly special moment came at our prom, when he challenged himself to try roller skating despite feeling unsure. With determination and a little encouragement, he was soon skating around the sports hall! Sam’s imagination, brilliant humour and willingness to embrace new experiences show just how far he’s come.
Zachary Wrigley
This year has tested Zachary in ways he couldn’t have expected, but his determination to keep moving forward has been remarkable. He’s continued towards his Sports Leadership qualification and volunteering with our Junior Boys Football sessions. He’s also embraced Snow Camp, discovering a new talent and challenging himself to try new experiences independently. Zachary’s willingness to accept support, keep showing up and believe in his future is something to be incredibly proud of.
Kier Durrant
Every time Kier walks through Inspire’s doors with a smile, he reminds us what determination looks like. Despite facing challenges, he continues to approach sessions with enthusiasm and a willingness to try. Once a quiet and reserved young person, Kier has worked hard to build his confidence, join in with others and embrace new activities. His growing self-belief and courage to keep challenging himself make every step forward worth celebrating.
Mcdonald’s Local Legend Award - Muhammed
A young person who engages through our detached programme. They’ve shown up with energy, respect and a willingness to grow.
Bobby Webbe
Bobby’s infectious personality and brilliant sense of humour make him a core part of our Adlington Youth Hub! This year, he’s shown fantastic commitment to Chorley FC’s Summer Soccer School, turning up consistently and giving it his all. He’s also embraced more opportunities within the youth group, bringing plenty of fun and laughter along the way. Behind his playful personality is a genuinely caring young person who shows wonderful patience and kindness towards younger children.
Travis Pursglove
There’s never a dull moment when Travis is around! A much-loved member of our Adlington Youth Hub, he brings laughter, enthusiasm and a smile to every session. Always ready to get involved, he’s built fantastic friendships and grown in confidence as he’s embraced new experiences. Travis has a brilliant way of making others feel welcome and encouraging everyone to join in. With his huge heart and infectious personality, he’s become a very special part of our Adlington community.
Muhammed Kaya
From joining our detached sessions to enjoying trips, residentials and activities at Inspire, Muhammed has made the most of every opportunity to connect with his community. He’s built lasting friendships, grown in confidence and become someone who’s always happy to lend a hand. Whether he’s supporting staff at events or volunteering to wash the Scran Van, Muhammed gets stuck in with a smile. His journey shows the power of friendship, belonging and giving something back.
Wingnut Utilities’ Future Leader Award - Maliha
A young person who inspires others, leads with positivity and shows the potential to shape the future.
Charlie Martindale
Charlie is proof that great leadership doesn’t always need a loud voice. With his calm, respectful nature and willingness to get involved, he sets a brilliant example for other young people at Inspire. In the gym, he’s often found encouraging younger Seniors, sharing advice and helping them feel more confident without ever being asked. It’s these thoughtful, everyday actions that make Charlie stand out. He leads naturally, earning the respect of those around him simply by being himself.
Maliha Ismail
Maliha’s intelligence, curiosity and ambition really deserve recognition! During our Women in Engineering visit, she hugely impressed industry professionals with her knowledge and questions. Now interested in becoming a STEM Young Leader, Maliha has the potential to inspire other young people, particularly girls exploring opportunities in science and engineering. Her quiet confidence and enthusiasm for learning suggest a future full of exciting possibilities, wherever her ambitions take her.
Hollie Warburton
Hollie isn’t waiting for the future to become a leader; she’s already making it happen! Having completed her Level 1 Sports Leadership qualification, she’s stepped up to help lead netball sessions and even coaches her younger sisters at home. Alongside volunteering at Inspire events, she’s worked hard to secure her college place and begin a hospital placement. Hollie’s determination to build her own future, while helping others succeed, makes her an inspiring example of leadership in action.
Telent’s Trailblazer Award - James
A young person who’s the first to take a step, try something new and open the door for others to follow.
Arthur Lane
If there’s something happening at Inspire, chances are Arthur will be one of the first to offer his help! Whether supporting staff, setting up activities or volunteering at events, he’s someone everyone can rely on. During football sessions, Arthur happily steps forward to demonstrate new skills, giving others the confidence to have a go themselves. His willingness to lead by example, without ever seeking recognition, makes him a brilliant role model for younger members.
Cordelia Yates
Cordelia’s journey from taking tentative steps into Seniors to performing at Inspire’s Got Talent and Chorley Live has been extraordinary. She’s embraced new experiences, including representing Inspire at Mudfest, and is now undertaking Young Leader training. Having discovered her confidence, Cordelia is encouraging fellow Thrive members to explore new opportunities too. Her courage and kindness has opened doors for other young people and inspired them to think differently.
James Astley
James is the kind of young person who quietly gets on with things, but his achievements deserve celebrating! This year, he’s completed his Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award and Level 1 Sports Leadership qualification, while volunteering with younger members. During the National Youth Orchestra residential, he embraced new instruments, new friendships and every opportunity that came his way. James doesn’t need to be the loudest to lead; his willingness to try inspires others to follow.
Telent’s Spirit of Inspire Award - Jordan
The ultimate recognition for a young person who lives and breathes Inspire’s values every single day.
Jordan Woods
From our Adlington Youth Hub to becoming a much-loved member of Inspire, Jordan has embraced every opportunity with enthusiasm. Whether he’s joining residentials, exploring careers opportunities or dancing his way through Friday night sessions, he’s always ready to get involved! What makes Jordan special is his genuine care for others. He’s the young person who always stops to ask staff how they’re doing, making everyone feel valued. His kindness, positivity and growing confidence truly embody Inspire’s spirit.
Sophie Greenall
From joining our Home Ed Clay Club to becoming a familiar face across Inspire, Sophie’s journey has been wonderful to watch. She’s grown in confidence, found her voice and become someone who helps others feel they belong. During holiday clubs, Sophie even became an unofficial tour guide, welcoming new young people and helping them settle in. Creative, caring and wonderfully full of personality, Sophie stands up for what she believes in and brings the Spirit of Inspire to life.
Ethan Lancaster
Whether he’s singing, drumming or cheering on his friends, Ethan brings something special to Inspire. A huge character in our music room, his talent and determination to keep improving are matched by his kindness towards others. During his Duke of Edinburgh expedition, he even offered to carry another young person’s bag when they were struggling. From volunteering at Juniors and Thrive to performing on stage, Ethan gives everything his all and makes Inspire a better place for everyone.
Against All Odds Award In Memory of Stuart Barnes - Riley
A young person who’s faced tough challenges head-on and turned them into moments of strength and possibility.
Hunter Balchan
Hunter has shown remarkable strength and positivity throughout a year that hasn’t always been easy. From his shy first steps into Inspire, he’s grown into a confident, enthusiastic member who gives everything his best. His kindness shines through, particularly in the way he looks out for his younger brother, making sure he’s happy and included. Whatever challenges come his way, Hunter continues to embrace opportunities with a smile, showing courage and care beyond his years.
Riley Holden
Ask any member of staff about Riley and they’ll tell you he’s part of the team! Through his own challenges, he’s developed remarkable strength, compassion and maturity, becoming someone younger members genuinely look up to. From leading Junior activities to representing young people through OnSide’s Youth Voice, Riley gives everything his all. His commitment to Inspire and the people around him is extraordinary. We wouldn’t be surprised to see him return as a youth worker one day!
Isla Carstairs
Isla shows incredible strength and maturity, balancing responsibilities at home with making the most of her time at Inspire. Caring for her brother, she demonstrates kindness and resilience well beyond her years. This year, she’s taken another big step by moving from Juniors into Seniors, embracing new friendships, activities and opportunities with enthusiasm. Isla’s positive outlook and determination to keep growing, whatever life brings, make her someone we are incredibly proud to celebrate.
