Downshire pupil receives Spirit of Community recognition

Angela Heddles, a year 14 student at Downshire School, is one of 20 finalists in the annual Pramerica Spirit of Community Awards.

The 17-year-old from Islandmagee was nominated by her school principal Jaqueline Stewart and will receive a certificate of achievement later this month.

“It was a big surpise to be nominated - I didn’t expect it at all,” said Angela, who is also a a Girls’ Brigade leader and school prefect.

On March 29, Angela and the 19 other finalists will be honoured at a gala awards dinner in Galway and will receive €500 and an engraved silver medallion, presented by a special guest of honour.

In addition, two of the finalists will be named All-Ireland Youth Volunteers of the Year at the awards dinner and will receive €1,000 for a charity of their choice, a gold medallion and an all-expenses paid trip to the United States in May to take part in the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards ceremony.

Angela was selected as a result of her volunteer work at Carrickfergus Senior Gateway Club. “The Gateway club works with adults who have learning disabilities,” she said.

“It’s a great thing to be involved in and gives me a real buzz. I’m considering social work as one of my options when I leave school, and this gives me fantastic experience for that.”

The awards are organised in partnership with the National Association of Principals and Deputy Principals (NAPD) and the General Teaching Council for Northern Ireland (GTCNI).

“We are proud of caring and giving young people like Angela who share their time, energy and passion so selflessly,” said Henry McGarvey, managing director at Pramerica Systems Ireland.

“Pramerica Spirit of Community showcases the tremendous work that takes place ‘under the radar’ by young volunteers. We are inspired by the dedication and commitment demonstrated by Angela and the 19 other finalists.”

The finalists were selected from second-level students nominated by their school principals last November. The criteria on which they were evaluated included motivation, service, impact, sustainability, commitment, and personal challenge.