20-06-2025
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.'
