Nominations open for Recognyz Youth Awards 09

Nominations are now open for Hamilton's Recognyz Youth Awards '09. The annual awards, which were first held in 2003, are open to all young people aged 12-24 who reside in Hamilton.

Awesome musicians, talented artists, ideas people, great leaders, strong role models and members of fantastic groups – every day there are young people throughout the city doing special things that set them apart from the crowd.

With a diverse range of award categories, from community involvement and volunteering, to leadership of other young people, innovative and creative ideas, overcoming adversity and achievement in arts, music or culture, Recognyz Youth Awards 09 is all about recognising the efforts and achievements of our young people.

Youth are able to nominate themselves or a friend, with prizes include iPods, fashion and music items as well as 2000 'dream dollars' for the overall supreme winner to further their passion.

Hamilton Youth Council chairperson Mary-Beth Acres says, "Recognyz is always an awesome event that showcases the fantastic things that young people are doing in Hamilton".

"Youth Council are really proud to be a part of this event and showing the city the positive contributions that youth make."

As a taster of the talent of this year's awards, Youth Council is hosting a shuffle dance competition in Civic Square on Saturday, 8 August from 1pm-2.30pm. Great prizes will be up for grabs on the day, with the top five shufflers invited to perform at this year's Recognyz Youth Awards '09.

Hamilton City Council CitySafe manager Phil Shaw says, "We acknowledge and appreciate what young people have to offer. This is a terrific opportunity for Hamilton City Council and CitySafe to promote the voice of the youth".

"These awards aim to embrace Hamilton's talent and show the positive features that we know young people have."

Nominations for this year's awards close on Friday, 21 August, with applications available online or by downloading an application form at www.hamilton.co.nz/recognyz or requesting a form by phoning Tania Hermann on 07 838 6735.

Held at Founders Theatre on Thursday, 24 September, Recognyz Youth Awards 09 is sponsored by Hamilton City Council, ZM 89.8, Tearaway magazine, NZPC, Wintec and Metropolis Caffe.