Public urged to vote for inspiring Derbyshire finalists in national awards

Two inspiring young people from YMCA Derbyshire have been shortlisted for national awards, with local people now being encouraged to vote to help them secure top honours.

Aisha and Dean are among four YMCA Derbyshire nominations in the 2026 YMCA Youth Matters Awards, which celebrate outstanding young people, volunteers and projects from across YMCA England & Wales.

Aisha, nominated for Young Achiever of the Year, moved into YMCA Derbyshire supported accommodation from a children’s home on the day after her 18th birthday.

Living with anxiety and other mental health challenges, she faced an uncertain future but embraced the support available to her and worked hard to build her confidence and independence.

After progressing into YMCA Derbyshire’ s move-on housing programme, she completed studies in Health & Social Care and Childcare through YMCA Key College.

A placement with the charity’s Y-Kidz programme helped her develop the confidence to lead activities and support children, ultimately securing employment with the team.

She is now planning to study Child and Adolescent Health at university while saving for her own home.

Dean, shortlisted for Young Volunteer of the Year, has volunteered with Padley Preloved charity shop for four years.

Despite facing significant personal challenges, he has dedicated his time to supporting others in a variety of roles, including reception, warehouse support and as a trusted key-holder for the charity shop.

When he first joined, Dean lacked confidence and preferred to remain behind the scenes.

Through volunteering, he has developed new skills and self-belief, becoming a valued member of the team and a confident ambassador for the charity.

YMCA Derbyshire has also been shortlisted in two project categories.

Its Community Meal programmes have been nominated for Health & Wellbeing Project of the Year, while the Connect and Thrive programme, supporting young people with emotional wellbeing and SEND needs, is shortlisted for Support and Advice Project of the Year.

Grace Harrison, director of development at YMCA Derbyshire, said “Aisha and Dean are inspiring examples of what young people can achieve with the right support and opportunities, and we are incredibly proud to see them recognised nationally.

“We’re equally proud of our Community Meals and Connect and Thrive programmes.

“We serve thousands of meals each year, bringing people together and tackling loneliness and isolation, while our mental health support, including therapeutic counselling and Re-Root Through Nature, helps young people build confidence, resilience and hope for the future.

“These nominations reflect what YMCA Derbyshire is all about – empowering young people, creating opportunities and strengthening communities.”

The public vote will determine the winners, with voting closing at 11.59pm on Monday 24 August. To vote, click here.