This category celebrates brilliant young volunteers aged 16 - 24 years old, who have been making a positive difference in their neighbourhood and community.
Young Volunteer - Michael Ashurst-Wheeler – London
Our winner received two nominations recognising their exceptional dedication to community safety, volunteering and supporting others from a remarkably young age. Their commitment began in childhood and has continued through a wide range of roles, including supporting Neighbourhood Watch, youth advisory groups and local community safety initiatives.
Alongside studying for their A Levels, they have consistently given their time to make a difference — supporting community engagement events, helping residents feel safer, and contributing to campaigns focused on tackling issues such as violence against women and girls. They have also taken part in active bystander training and worked alongside partners to strengthen community connections.
Their commitment extends beyond community safety, with significant fundraising achievements for local charities, regular volunteering at a food bank, supporting Christmas Day meals for vulnerable residents, walking for 2 hours to get their on Christmas Day, and helping organise food collections when supplies were running low. Through their kindness, leadership and willingness to support others, they have inspired those around them and demonstrated the powerful contribution young people can make in creating safer, stronger communities.