Do you know a young person in Sutherland who deserves an award?
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The Northern Times has been working alongside the Clan Sutherland Society of Scotland to find a young person aged 12-14 who deserves to be recognised for their contribution to the area.
Perhaps they have helped out at home, made a difference at school or been a dedicated member of their local community.
We know that young people don't always get the credit they deserve – and that's why we wanted to shine a light on the efforts of young people across the county.
The deadline to submit an entry to the 2023 Clan Sutherland Young Citizen of the Year Award has been extended to April 14, to give people a chance to nominate over the Easter holiday period.
Nominations can come from family, friends, neighbours, schools or others in the community, with the permission of the child's parent or guardian.
After relaunching the award last year, two joint winners were chosen when the selection panel decided unanimously that both finalists were equally deserving of the prize.
Lacey Tunstall of Lochinver and Lia Matheson of Dornoch received their certificate and prize from Dr Lady Elizabeth Costin, representing the 25th Earl and Chief of Clan Sutherland, Alistair Sutherland, her father.
Lacey was nominated after winning a Youth Philanthropy Initiative (YPI) Scotland competition that raised £3000 for the Assynt Centre, a community hub where she also volunteers, which runs drop-in sessions, coffee mornings and events for local people in Lochinver and the surrounding area, as well as running a community transport service.
Lia was nominated by her teacher at Dornoch Academy, Anne Morrison, after being a very supportive friend to one of her peers at a difficult time.
During the 2022 award presentation in Golspie in November, Dr Lady Costin congratulated the winners on behalf of her father and said: “When I read both your stories, what struck me was just the real kindness that you’ve shown in your communities and that’s really heart-warming.”
This year the winner is expected to receive their prize – a certificate and £300, half of which must be donated to a local charity of the recipient's choice – at a ceremony at Dunrobin Castle during the International Clan Gathering on June 8.
To nominate a young person who has made a difference to the well-being, happiness and confidence of others or to the enhancement of the environment of their community, click on the Young Citizen Award tab at www.clansutherland.org.uk
A spokesman for the clan society said it and the clan chief look forward to learning about more young, unsung local heroes across Sutherland who deserve to be recognised as part of this award process.
