Skip to main content Skip to footer

Young Person of the Year

The Young Person of the Year award will go to an exceptional young person who has achieved great things this year.

Our Judges have shortlisted the following finalists for 2025. The winner of this award will be announced at the awards ceremony on 3 April 2025.

Chloe Blakeston-Smith

Chloe Blakeston-Smith

Chloe is a dedicated young volunteer for Youth UNITY at CommUNITY Little Hulton, where she helps run two youth clubs and assists with events. She is involved in the Duke of Edinburgh scheme and made a significant impact this year by successfully applying for funding from KFC, enabling the older youth group to hike up Rivington Pike. She planned and led the hike, showcasing her desire to learn new skills and listen to the youth group's wishes. Chloe's efforts have greatly benefited the community, making her an invaluable asset to CommUNITY Little Hulton.

Noah Hartley

Noah Hartley

Noah is a determined and resilient young man, who gives everything his all, especially his running. His determination has led to impressive achievements, such as competing in many events, coming first in his first 600m track event, he has also participated in U11s Manchester Cross Country League race, attaining 15th and 9th positions in fields of over 100. Noah’s determination and resilience isn’t just found on the track, but also in his academia and interest in supporting his community, shown by his recent successful application to join the GMP Mini Police scheme. Despite facing some personal challenges, Noah continues to show up and achieve great things.

Sophia Lamaris

Sophia Lamaris

Sophia has been highly commended by her school for her determination and resilience. Over the past 12 to 18 months, she has grown in confidence through her passion for sports. Her achievements include competing in the South East Lancashire Cross Country league, where she made the top 20 in the U11 girls category, running a 10k and finishing in the top 40, earning an ultra-marathon band for completing 50 junior park runs, and receiving the Salford Mets Coaches Award for her resilience. She also excels in Karate and supports her school teams, praising and encouraging her peers. Sophia's unwavering grit and determination inspire others.

Carter Gregg

Carter is an exceptional young person who makes a difference at the Deans Youth Centre. For the past 2 years he has been volunteering for the Year 6 group, as a Senior Helper, where he supports young people to engage in a range of activities. Carter is also on the Young Person Committee for the new Salford Youth Zone where he has been instrumental in design activities, giving insight from a young person's perspective, giving presentations and meeting with funders. Carter is reliable and always willing to help out and has been described as a natural leader.

Jackson Walton – Freer

Jackson Walton – Freer

Jackson is an active member of his school's cadet force, and has completed his Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award, and joined Salford's Fight for Change Council. Elected to the Salford Youth Parliament, he embraces his duties, often giving up his evenings and weekends. Jackson's inspiring speech at the Salford Foster Carers Association conference received outstanding feedback. A budding musician, he participated in a project with other schools and professional musicians, showcasing his talents. Known for his caring nature, Jackson consistently helps others and engages in various school activities.

Kian Hodkinson

Kian Hodkinson

Kian has been selected as a finalist for his achievements and dedication and for being a role model for his peers and the broader community at his school, Oasis Academy MediaCityUK. He serves as Principal Student and CEO Student for his school trust, representing over 10,000 students. Kian is also involved with Salford Lads Club, holds a brown belt in Karate, and cares for his two nephews. Kian's commitment to service, his resilience, and leadership on the Academy Hub Council, are all highly commended.

Spirit of Salford Community Awards 2025

To find out more about the awards or to get involved in any way please get in touch with us.

Cookie notice

Find out more about how this website uses cookies to enhance your browsing experience.