De Montfort University Leicester (DMU) is looking for nominations for those who are helping their communities to thrive as part of the Leicester Mercury Young Achievers' Awards.
Flashback: DMU staff and young people at a Square Mile community event
The university is sponsoring the Community Achievement category of the awards and is keen for individuals to nominate those who are making a real difference to the communities they live in.
DMU has a strong track record of its own when it comes to helping others. This includes its pioneering Square Mile scheme – which offers opportunities for the community to draw upon the academic expertise of students and staff to improve health, education and job prospects.
Many of its projects are embedded into degree coursework, ensuring hundreds of students gain skills which make them stand out in an increasingly difficult jobs market, as well as demonstrating palpably how the work of a university can sustainably support and develop communities.
Professor Dominic Shellard, vice chancellor of the university, said: "We recognise the huge contribution that young people make to life in our communities and are looking forward to seeing all the inspirational entries for the Young Achievers Awards.
"We strongly believe in partnerships – on a local, national and international scale – and are happy to work with the Leicester Mercury to highlight all these success stories which will hopefully encourage others to make a real difference where they live.
"DMU is particularly proud of its community programmes and the ethos of community service which we foster in our students.
"It gives students and staff the opportunity to build on their own talents, by working with residents and in voluntary organisations and businesses, while at the same time benefiting local people.
"We're honoured to play our part in the region's many accomplishments and delighted to sponsor the Community Achievement Award."
The Leicester Mercury Young Achievers Awards aim to recognise those who go above and beyond to get where they are. Those who have excelled in education, enterprise and sport will be recognised, as well as those who are making a difference in their community.
In addition, there is a Breakthrough Award for those who have shone through despite their personal circumstances.
Anyone can nominate a deserving young person, aged between 14 and 25, who lives in Leicestershire.
Nominations close on Monday, October 19.
The winners of the 10 categories will be announced on December 3 at an awards ceremony at the King Power Stadium, and will each receive £250 and a trophy. Two category runners-up will each receive a cash prize of £50 and a certificate of merit.
Posted on Friday 18 September 2015