Latest news with #YoungScotAwards
Glasgow Times
21-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Glasgow Times
Glasgow judo champion named winner at Young Scot Awards
Rebecca Bradley, 20, was named the winner of the Sport and Physical Fitness Award at the Young Scot Awards. The competition, which is the only national awards ceremony for young people in Scotland, is designed to recognise positive role models who are helping to inspire future generations. Read more: 'Soak up the magic': Glasgow's longest-running music festival kicks off Rebecca was awarded the accolade for her "outstanding work" to make judo more accessible and inclusive. The young champion has used her martial arts experience to create female-only judo sessions at Clyde Judo Club in Paisley, hoping to create a safe space for women and girls. These sessions became an immediate sell-out success, leading Rebecca to start up another set of judo classes for refugees. Rebecca received her award from the event's headline sponsor sportscotland. She said: "I'm absolutely buzzing to win this award. "I've been involved with judo since I was eight, and it has given me so much confidence and community over the years. "I wanted to pass that on, especially to women, girls, and people who might not otherwise get the chance to try it. "Seeing the classes grow and watching people find their strength on the mat has been incredible. "This is just the beginning." The awards ceremony, put on at Platform in Glasgow, was a vibrant celebration of Scotland's young people. Hosted by Capital DJ Katy J, the awards night also featured a live DJ, mocktail reception, and silent disco. (Image: Supplied) Read more: Free coffee morning to be held at Glasgow church as part of barista training program Katy J said: 'It's honestly such a joy to be part of the Young Scot Awards again. "I always leave feeling so inspired by the energy, passion, and kindness of young people. "They are doing the most incredible things, often quietly, without expecting recognition. "That's why nights like this matter so much, to shine a light on their stories. Natalie Don-Innes, Minister for Children and Young People, presented Ellie Hodge, 17, with the overall Young Scot of the Year award for her dedication to supporting students with additional support needs. Kirsten Urquhart, chief executive of Young Scot, said: "These awards highlight the extraordinary impact young people have across Scotland every day. "Rebecca and Ellie's stories are proof that when supported and celebrated, young people become powerful drivers of change." The winners were also praised for their amazing efforts by Scotland's First Minister John Swinney. He said: "Congratulations to the finalists and young people from every corner of Scotland. "Thank you for what you are doing to help your communities, for your dedication, your enthusiasm, and for going above and beyond to make Scotland the place we want it to be – a place of connection, kindness and compassion."
Daily Record
20-06-2025
- Sport
- Daily Record
Stirling volunteer scoops two top prizes after more than 200 hours giving back
Teenager Ellie Hodge picked up two prizes at the Young Scot Awards after her contributions to Active Stirling. A Stirling teenager who has volunteered more than 200 hours for a local sporting organisation picked up a pair of top prizes for her efforts this week. Ellie Hodge, 16, is a dedicated volunteer for Active Stirling and was nominated for two gongs at the Young Scot Awards 2025 held in Glasgow on Monday evening after being shortlisted from more 400 nominees all over the country. Her nomination praised her passion for making sport and physical activity, with Ellie put forward for the Health and Wellbeing Award at the glittering ceremony at the city's Platform venue. She walked away with that prize - but more was to come later on as she was also named the overall Young Scot of the Year. Ellie said: 'I still can't believe I won! Volunteering with Active Stirling has given me so many opportunities to learn, grow, and meet incredible people. 'I've gained so much confidence and I love helping to make sport accessible for everyone. It means so much to be recognised at the Young Scot Awards.' Ellie recently joined Active Stirling as a relief ice guard, but still plans to keep up her volunteering commitments during the school holidays. Among those commitments have seen the teenager support a wide range of programmes including The PEAK holiday camps, Health Walks, Bikes Without Barriers, SportAbility and Inspire Stirling. She has also completed specialist training in autism awareness, disability in sport, and sighted guiding. Ellie was presented with the award on the night by the Minister for Children, Young People and the Promise, Natalie Don-Innes MSP. First Minister John Swinney shared a message of congratulations with the teenager, saying: 'Ellie is the embodiment of resilience, kindness and leadership. 'Her work supporting others, particularly those with additional needs, is not only inspiring but deeply impactful. She is a shining example of how Scotland's young people are changing lives and building stronger communities. 'Congratulations to the finalists and to young people from every corner of Scotland. 'Thank you for what you are doing to help your communities, for your dedication, your enthusiasm and for going above and beyond to make Scotland the place we want it to be – a place of connection, kindness and compassion.' Natalie Wilson, Employability & Volunteer Officer at Active Stirling, said: 'Ellie is an extraordinary young person. 'Her passion, kindness, and commitment to helping others truly stand out. We're so proud of her achievements and are delighted to see her journey progress from volunteering to employment with us. 'She is a fantastic role model for other young people in Stirling and beyond.'
