The inaugural Youth Achievement Awards Ceremony, held on Wednesday 28th May 2025, celebrated the remarkable achievements and contributions of young individuals within the community as well as organisations or project that inspire the younger generations. The Minister for Youth, the Hon Christian Santos GMD MP, presented the awards during the ceremony at the Garrison Library.

This initiative reflects a key policy objective of the Government’s Youth Strategy, to recognise and honour the positive impact and leadership demonstrated by young people across various sectors of society. The Youth Service asked for nominations from the public and the panel met to make the decisions on who they felt merited the awards.

Award recipients included:

Amy MacMichael

For her dedicated voluntary work with students with supported needs, her engagement with neurodivergent teenagers at Youth Clubs, and her efforts in establishing a bereavement group for students.

Isabel Morgan

For her exemplary leadership and meaningful support to younger participants at Dolphins Youth Club.

Jade Yusifredo

For her unwavering commitment to PossAbilities, advocacy for youth within the charity, and active involvement in the Youth Symposium. 

Katie Maddocks

For her volunteer service within Gibraltar’s armed forces community, including her vital support in delivering summer programmes and themed youth projects. 

Skyanne Wink, Yelena Recagno, and Sophia Celecia

For their outstanding work as role models and mentors at Yalta’s Dance Studio, breaking down stereotypes and building confidence in young dancers. 

The Nautilus Project

For inspiring environmental stewardship among teenagers and fostering a resilient, compassionate new generation of volunteers. 

The Luce Foundation

For 25 years of dedicated support toward educational opportunities for disadvantaged youth, encouraging personal growth, independence, and confidence.

Yalta Dance Studio received a special mention for their work with young people throughout the years nurturing young mentors.

Minister Santos expressed his pride in presenting these awards, stating: “It was an honour to meet such deserving recipients and their guests. These young individuals have gone above and beyond in their communities, demonstrating the kind of leadership, empathy, and commitment that truly inspires.”

He also extended heartfelt thanks to the public for taking the time to submit nominations, underscoring the importance of community involvement in recognising and uplifting local talent.

For further information about the Youth Service and upcoming events, please contact Principal Youth Officer Mark Zammit at mzammit@gibraltar.gov.gi.