Bristol Young Heroes Awards 2025: Final call to nominate inspirational young Bristolians
As the nomination deadline for the Bristol Young Heroes Awards 2025 approaches, local businesses, schools, and community groups are invited to shine a light on the city’s most inspiring young people.
The awards, organised by not-for-profit social enterprise Community of Purpose, celebrates Bristolians aged 11-19 who have achieved remarkable personal milestones, or made a positive impact within their communities.
There are nine award categories, including:
Action Hero
Caring Hero
Creative Hero
Entrepreneurial Hero
Environmental & Sustainability Hero
Fundraising Hero
Learning Hero
Sporting Hero
Super Hero
Not all of the categories have an age limit. The High Sheriff’s Award is for individuals who have shown considerable dedication to the service of young people. Additionally, the Team of Heroes Award honours groups or organizations that have demonstrated exceptional teamwork to benefit local youth.
Amy Kington, co-founder and CEO of Community of Purpose, said: “There are some truly incredible young people in Bristol – in the words of The Who, the kids are alright!
“The stories shared each year demonstrate real strength and selflessness, despite the difficult circumstances that many of the finalists have faced. And the awards ceremony never fails to make me feel proud to be a Bristolian.”
For the children and adults nominated, the opportunities that follow can be transformative. Nominees are invited to a special gala event, and all finalists are enrolled on the Purposeful Pathways programme. This year-long development and mentoring programme is designed to equip these extraordinary young people with the essential skills, connections and experience they need to succeed in their chosen career.
Previous winners have spoken about how the experience has boosted their confidence and helped them to realise their potential.
17-year-old Oscar McKee won the Action Hero award last year, after being nominated by hospital staff for his positive attitude and fundraising efforts following brain surgery.
“The award helped me to step back and reflect on what I’ve achieved since my surgery. I’m a sociable person, and it also gave me the chance to meet new friends and make new connections”.
If you’re unsure about whether you should nominate, I would say – 100% go for it! You have the potential to give someone an unforgettable experience.”
At 10 years old, Barney Thomas was the youngest ever winner of the Overall Hero award last year. He said: “I was very happy, and a bit shocked, when I won after fundraising for The Grand Appeal. Since winning, I feel a lot more confident and Purposeful Pathways has helped me to set some future goals. I want to make the people that nominated me proud.
“If you’re not sure about nominating someone, or yourself, my advice would be: it’s worth a shot. It doesn’t matter whether you win or lose – you’ll meet some amazing people and learn a lot about what you can achieve.”
Bristol Young Heroes Awards 2024 – Photography by Dougie Allward/Made for Impact
The nomination process is straightforward and takes approximately 10 minutes. Anyone can nominate a young person from a BS postcode, and self-nominations are also accepted. With a deadline of 28th March, organisers are keen to remind people of the huge impact these awards can have.
Amy offered a final call to those who feel inspired to uplift a local legend: “If you know someone who deserves recognition, now is the time to act. Nominate before it’s too late, and help to change a young hero’s life.”
