“I want to be the change I wish I had.”
We’re delighted and proud to announce that our very own Penny Rosemond has been shortlisted in this year’s North East Charity Awards!
At just 17, Penny secured a Peer Research role with NE Youth after experiencing serious youth violence and years of exclusion from schools where she often felt unheard and unseen. With no prior engagement in youth services, she took it upon herself to turn things around — attending an open day where she met NE Youth, and, for the first time, felt truly heard and accepted. Through the Peer Action Collective (PAC) programme, she began her journey toward creating safer, more inclusive communities for young people.
Penny has since become a fearless advocate for youth, using her lived experience to positively challenge professionals and champion her peers. Her empathetic and open-minded approach, coupled with a willingness to learn and grow, has made her a respected voice in Gateshead and beyond.
As Caroline Evans, Youth Lead at Gateshead Council, puts it: “She is a real champion for young people… an inspirational role model for her peers.” Penny’s journey is a powerful example of resilience, transformation, and the impact one determined young person can make.
Following Lucy Brannan’s success in last year’s ‘Young Charity Champion’ category, we are so proud that another of our incredible PAC has been nominated for their commitment and hard work. Earlier this year, another PAC member Ellie Johnson was a finalist at the North East Chamber Awards, and the PAC were also finalists for ‘Young Achiever of the Year’ at this year’s Gateshead Awards. Wonderful and deserved recognition for our young people.
The awards take place at The Fed on September 11th, so please keep your fingers crossed for our amazing Penny!
Read more in this Chronicle Live article: https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/north-east-news/north-east-charity-awards-shortlist-32138708
