Member Article

‘Inspirational’ Emma chosen for national leadership award

Emma Ramshaw from North Tyneside has been announced as the winner of a national award for her work as a team leader on a youth programme.

Emma has been named as the National Citizen Service’s (NCS) Most Inspirational Leader for her role with North Tyneside VODA (Voluntary Organisations Development Agency), where she has been a volunteer mentor since the NCS scheme began in 2011.

National Citizen Service (NCS) is a once–in-a-lifetime opportunity open to all 15 to 17 year olds across England and Northern Ireland. It is a unique residential programme focused around fun and discovery, followed by 30 hours committed to a community project that benefits both young people and society. As a Team Leader on VODA’s NCS programme Emma has supported hundreds of young people in North Tyneside.

VODA’s Volunteer Centre Manager, Robin Fry, who made the nomination said: “Emma Ramshaw is an inspiration, a role model and a gift. She is the embodiment of the NCS ethos - always up for a challenge, always inspiring others, encouraging people to mix outside of their usual social groups, take on responsibility, impact on the community and understand the difference they have made.”

And Emma has done all of this whilst facing challenges of her own. Robin continues: “As a young adult Emma faces a daily battle with her health and well-being. What keeps her going is finding new ways to help others. Whilst overcoming her own fear of heights Emma challenges young people to identify and conquer their own fears - whether physical or mental. Through NCS Emma has become stronger, more confident and more resilient to the challenges she faces.”

Delighted to receive the news, Emma said “Being involved in NCS has been an amazing adventure, one that has shaped me into the person I am now. I don’t think people will ever truly understand how much volunteering means to me –it saved my life. The best part of supporting young people on NCS is seeing them grow; to see them overcome huge challenges they never believed they could; to see them develop new skills and of course seeing them succeed.”

In recognition of her award Emma received VIP treatment at the NCS Yes Live event in London on Tuesday 29th March. The event, curated by NCS Ambassador Tinie Tempah, also featured BRIT Critics’ Choice Award Nominee, Izzy Bizu and top ten-selling DJ duo Blonde as well as special appearances from Jess Glynne and Craig David.

NCS takes place across the North East this summer and is open to all 15-17 year olds for no more than £50. Places on the programme, beginning in July or August, are filling up fast. Thousands of teenagers are already looking forward to a life-changing experience. Young people or parents are being urged to call 0191 247 4020 or visit ncsnortheast.co.uk to secure their place.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Jonny Marshall .