Nominations are now open to recognise inspirational young people in Amelia's Young Highlander Awards (YHA)
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THE awards are now open to nominate children to recognise their fight in the face of adversity.
They were set up by Kelly Macrae to honour her daughter Amelia who was born at only 32 weeks and placed on a ventilator. Amelia was then diagnosed with global development delay, autism and being non-verbal.
Ms Macrae wanted to create the awards to recognise Amelia's ongoing fight and each year to raise money for charity.
The awards this year mark her eighth birthday and will take place at the Drumossie Hotel on August 26.
Sponsored by Caley Timber and Building Supplies, the evening will raise money for NHS Play Specialists and Drummond School.
One category still requires a sponsor - the child hero award which recognises a child who acted in an emergency and got vital support.
Speaking about the return of the YHA, founder Kelly Macrae said: “I am so excited to bring the Amelia Young Highlander Awards back this year and I am overwhelmed by the support I have already had from businesses all over the Highlands and Islands. All but one of the awards have already been sponsored and businesses have been really generous in donating prizes which will be given away as part of the fundraising on the night.
"I’m hoping we can raise as much money as possible this year for NHS Play Specialists and Drummond School, both of whom have been a huge support to me, my family, and of course Amelia over the years.”
An award has been renamed in honour of Leo Flett from Balloch who died at four years old from muscular dystrophy.
His mum, Louise Flett, added: "We are extremely honoured and proud to have been asked to present the newly named Leo Flett Child of Bravery Award at Amelia’s Young Highlanders this year. The change to the name is a very fitting tribute to Leo and is something that has warmed our hearts, knowing that his memory will be kept alive in this way.”
Children can be nominated that are under 16 years of age.
The categories are:
- Child of Courage Award – sponsored by Macleod & MacCallum
- Amelia's Keep on Swimming Award – sponsored by Caley Timber and Building Supplies
- Special Sibling Award – sponsored by The Midge Bite, Achnasheen
- Child Fundraiser Award - sponsored by Clarsach
- Child Hero Award – sponsor TBC
- Leo Flett Child of Bravery Award – sponsored by Louise and Mitchell Flett
- Child Carer Award – sponsored by North Coast Cars
- The Wellbeing Child Award – sponsored by Scott’s Wellbeing and Counselling Services
- Special Recognition Award – sponsored by Mrs Lorraine Christie
- Child Community Award – sponsored by GEG Capital
Donald John Morrison, managing director of Caley Timber and Building Supplies, said: “I have known Kelly and her family for a few years now and I definitely have a soft spot for Amelia. I am proud to be part of the Young Highlander Awards which does amazing work to celebrate our young people, often battling against the odds, as well as raise vital money for good causes.”
Organisers are also looking for a band to play on the night.
To nominate a child, click here.
