Recognyz Youth Awards to celebrate young Hamiltonians

The amazing achievements of Hamilton’s youth will be celebrated at the Recognyz Youth Awards 2012, with nominations now open.

Hamilton City Councillor Margaret Forsyth says the awards are a chance to showcase the outstanding contributions that young people aged 12-24 years old make to the city.

“We have so many talented and passionate young people here in Hamilton and all too often their contributions can go unacknowledged. The Recognyz Youth Awards are a chance for us all to take the time to celebrate all the great things our youth do for Hamilton and make sure they get the recognition they deserve,” says Cr Forsyth.

Now in its eighth year, the Recognyz Youth Awards is Hamilton Youth Council’s major annual event. Youth Council Chair Logan Reynolds encourages people to get their nominations in: "This event is not only about honouring deserving young people, but also about celebrating Hamilton's diversity and circulating positive youth stories. It's set to be a fantastic night with plenty of entertainment and local flavour, and I encourage people to get involved," he said.

The seven award categories for the Recognyz Youth Awards 2012 are:

• Manaakitanga – for community involvement and volunteering (sponsored by Glenview Community Centre)
• Youth 4 Youth – for leadership of other young people (sponsored by TalkingTECH Foundation)
• Innovation – for innovative and creative ideas and projects (sponsored by Free FM 89)
• Dream Team – group award for community involvement and volunteering (sponsored by SBS Bank)
• Beat Street – for achievement in arts, music and culture (sponsored by Hamilton Central Business Association)
• Kia Kaha – for overcoming adversity (sponsored by River Road Dental Care)
• Enviro – for outstanding contributions to the environment and/or sustainability of Hamilton (sponsored by McCaw Lewis)

Nominations can be made online at www.hamilton.co.nz and close on 7 November. Nominees must reside in Hamilton and be aged between 12-24 years old.

The winners will be announced on 6 December at an award function at Wintec Atrium, which will also include entertainment by local youth performers.

Other sponsors of the Recognyz Youth Awards include Wintec, Montana Catering, Mark Hamilton Photography, X Ray Communications, Print House, Trust Waikato, Hamilton Gardens and The Radio Network.