Lee Kirtley - CEO, Northern Leaders Trust
Tell us about your role with Northern Leaders Trust.
Northern Leaders Trust is a Newcastle based multi academy trust consisting of our family of two secondary schools – Kenton School and Studio West.
I am proud to be the new CEO of the Trust. I work with many talented professionals who truly put students at the centre of everything they do.
What is the most satisfying aspect of your job?
I still get to spend time with the students, and this is undoubtedly the best part of my job. In addition, I can make quick decisions that enable people to remove barriers and therefore do great work for young people.
You recently launched the Community Champions Awards. What gave you the impetus to do this?
For over 20 years I have heard stories of young people who do extraordinary things outside of their school life. Many of these achievements or acts of charity and goodwill are not celebrated enough. I have always wanted to find a vehicle to do exactly that: celebrate the amazing young people who contribute so much to their local communities.
The community plays a vital role in the health and wellbeing of young people. It provides them with a sense of belonging, support and the opportunity to make meaningful connections with others. As adults, we have a responsibility to nurture and support our young people, to provide them with opportunities to thrive and to become positive contributors to society.
We need to lead by example and demonstrate the values of kindness, generosity and inclusivity just as the nominees of these awards have done.
It is important to recognise that the future of our communities lies in the hands of our young people. We must continue to encourage them to become active citizens and leaders in their communities, provide them with the tools and resources they need to succeed and celebrate their achievements along the way.
What categories are available to enter?
There are seven award categories including:
Community Hero
Young Fundraiser of the Year
Welcoming New Students into the Community
Act of Kindness Award
Young Carer Award
Courage Award
Special Recognition Award
When is the event and what can attendees expect on the evening?
The event will take place on the 30th June at Kenton School. Guests will celebrate with the award winners and listen to the inspirational words of some very special guest speakers.
Do you hope these become an annual fixture in the calendar?
It is my intention for this to become an annual event to celebrate young people across Newcastle upon Tyne. I am delighted to have received such a positive response from local businesses and communities towards the Community Champion Awards. Together we can create a more inclusive, compassionate and supportive world for our young people to thrive in.
How do you get involved?
If you know an inspirational young person who deserves recognition, head to the Community Champion Awards section on our website or scan the QR code below to submit a nomination before Friday 16th June!
northernleaderstrust.org/about-us/communitychampion-awards