By Ricky, Secretary
Twenty-four finalists from this year’s Try Angle Awards were awarded prizes in recognition of their hard work and commitment at the Ashford International Hotel in the Spirit of Try Angle Awards celebration evening.
Various dignitaries and sponsors attended such as Bill Butler, who created the awards in 1994 to raise the profile of young people who really TRY, often with little or no recognition who try their best.
To nominate someone for the Try Angle Awards 2019, please see the Try Angle Awards website for more details: https://www.kent.gov.uk/education-and-children/young-people/try-angle-awards
Jessica Austin
Gravesham finalist, aged 16
An outstanding and flawless performer and singer, who has grown in confidence on and off stage and in her support to the Gifted Young Gravesham (GYG) committee.
Marcus Stephens
Maidstone finalist, aged 17
An incredible screenwriter and actor who has written, created and produced a successful screenplay to reflect personal experiences of mental health issues and an insight of young people living with the reality of depression.
Nathan Williams
Canterbury finalist, aged 12
A truly inspirational artist with an amazing superpower who has found sanctuary in drawing and painting, going on to produce now some outstanding art pieces despite many daily challenges.
Archie Mitchell
Tonbridge and Malling finalist, aged 16
An outstanding volunteer and fundraiser for many good causes and supporting his local parish, bringing much needed life saving equipment and training to his community and more.
Mason Rickard
Gravesham finalist, aged 17
Not only an incredible host, but an aspirational leader and Chair for the H4U committee raising awareness of mental health and wellbeing, a voice on hate crime. Giving every waking hour to raising the profile of H4U and young people.
Oasis Academy
Swale finalist, aged 12-14
A dedicated group endlessly promoting dementia awareness, encouraging incredible friendships and support through their dementia cafes, presentations and activities to those suffering and their carers.
Abigail Stilwell
Maidstone finalist, aged 18
An extremely courageous person who heroically strives to overcome barriers in life, including physical to pursue her goals whatever pain she is in or whatever life throws.
Chloe Anne Manzi
Thanet finalist, aged 18
An extraordinary young carer who supports both parents, and her siblings who bravely stepped into action calmly to administering life-saving skills.
Freddie Newing
Ashford finalist, aged 18
An amazing and brave young man diagnosed with leukaemia, an ambassador for young people and a fundraiser raising money Cancer Research to support others.
Alena Bryen
Maidstone finalist, aged 12
A remarkable young person providing over 55 hours per week caring for others within her family across three different households – giving all her time and energy to support those she cares for.
Eloise Fryett
Tunbridge Wells finalist, aged 16
An amazing young carer, often in many difficult and frightening circumstances, relaying clear information to the emergency services. Always remaining calm and reassuring to all those around her.
Stephanie Coutside
Swale finalist, aged 14
An incredibly brave and supportive friend, that despite her own issues put everything aside to be the best friend she could possibly be and support her friend in her final months.
David Richardson
Ashford finalist, aged 18
A talented guitarist, musician and volunteer giving much time and support to others, to encourage them to do well at school in particularly music.
Owen Barnett
Thanet finalist, aged 18
A fine composer, way beyond his years specialising in choral music and studying now at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, completing regularly with composers worldwide. YouTube: CCGS Advanced Vocal Ensemble
Ricky Taing
Dartford finalist, aged 15
A much recognised musician excelling in piano, flute and general musicianship playing at a number of prestigious venues. As well as encouraging others to take up a musical instrument.
Niamh Lynn-Devere
Canterbury finalist, aged 17
A resilient young person who despite many challenges including dyspraxia and grief, has shown unbelievable strength, determination and confidence to throw herself into everything especially performing arts.
Tahlia Davies
Dover finalist, aged 14
An incredible young person, aspiring others having turned her own life around. Making tremendous efforts through sheer determination to succeed both at home and school.
Tyrone Waters
Maidstone finalist, aged 16
Joshua Kilembeka
Dartford finalist, aged 18
An inspirational young person sharing his story to assist in the prevention of young people getting involved in gangs, drugs and weapons, and those within the criminal justice system.
Manel Gomez
Sevenoaks finalist, aged 15
A remarkable positive person who ensures young people have a voice and a safe place to speak out about their sexuality and other issues that impact on their lives.
Nathan James
Canterbury finalist, aged 15
A determined and driven young person who does so much to raise awareness for mental health and promote positive well-being for young people, via online blogs, social media and many other creative projects.
Joshua and Henry
Maidstone finalist, aged 15 and 12
Both are keen and highly successful footballers for Maidstone United Raiders Disability Football Club, winning cups, medals and leagues as well as overcoming many challenges.
Kaylea Fryer
Folkestone and Hythe finalist, aged 17
A modest sportsperson and outstanding goalkeeper for Folkestone Invicta Under 18’s squad, and so happens to be a black belt in karate chosen to represent Team GB in the world championships, with possibility of Olympic selection.
William Hunt
Dover finalist, aged 15
An all-round sports star focusing on his passion for Rugby, playing and captaining for The Saracens. Captains a number of sport disciplines and successfully competing in athletic competitions also in 800m and 1500m events.
Dartford Youth Council 