Sutherland-wide search for inspiring young citizen to win clan prize
Nominations are being invited for the 2025 Clan Sutherland Young Citizen of the Year Award.
The award recognises the contribution made by young people across Sutherland to their families, schools and communities.
The Clan Sutherland Society in Scotland is looking for young people between the ages of 12 and 14 who have made a positive impact on their communities.
Nominations are being sought from each of the five secondary schools serving the county’s population - Dornoch Academy, Farr, Golspie and Kinlochbervie High Schools and Ullapool High School.
Last year’s award was won by Brora teenager Isla Hirst who attends Golspie High School. She received her prize at a ceremony in Dunrobin Castle after being nominated for a range of volunteering activities in the village and the wider community.
The young citizen award was first launched in 2018, when it was won by carer Eilidh Amos from Kinlochbervie High School, but was suspended for the following three years largely due to the coronavirus pandemic.
But the society joined with Highland News and Media, owners of the Northern Times, to relaunch it in 2022 when the prize was shared by Lacey Tunstall of Lochinver and Lia Matheson of Dornoch.
Lacey was nominated after winning a Youth Philanthropy Initiative (YPI) Scotland competition which raised £3000 for the Assynt Centre, a community hub where she volunteers.
Lia won the award after being a very supportive friend to one of her peers at a difficult time.
In 2023, the award went to young musician Poppy Mackay for her caring for others and her enthusiasm in encouraging younger children to play music.
Winners receive a certificate and £300, half of which must be donated to a local charity of the winner’s choice. A presentation ceremony will be held either at Dunrobin Castle or in the Golspie area.
The partnership between the society and HNM continues for the 2025 award.
To view the entry guidelines and to nominate an inspiring young person who you feel has made a difference to the wellbeing, happiness and confidence of others or to the enhancement of the environment of their community, visit www.clansutherland.org.uk and click on the Young Citizen Award tab.
