Joan’s Young Achiever award

Joan Mallon, 21, clinched the Samsung Young Achiever prize at the ceremony in Titanic Belfast on December 2.

Joan was bullied at school and eventually dropped out. After having a child, she escaped a harmful relationship and attended a Prince’s Trust programme at Southern Regional College. The programme aimed to improve the prospects of unemployed young people, and Joan’s work placement resulted in a permanent contract. She also completed an access course.

Joan commented: “The Prince’s Trust Team programme changed the way I saw things. I started to think about returning to education; I liked meeting new people, especially on the community project part of the programme, where I realised that caring for others is something I enjoy and am good at, and I felt like I could be myself again. Team gave me the boost I needed to realise I could still do so much with my life.”

Joan is now studying criminology and social policy at university. She also volunteers with disadvantaged young people.

Samsung Ireland General Manager Adrian McInerney commented: “Samsung are proud to sponsor the Celebrate Success Awards. Huge congratulations to Joan for proving that it is possible to succeed against all the odds. She has come so far! I would like to congratulate Joan on behalf of all at Samsung for winning this prestigious award.”