Caitlin McEllenborough of Netherton Detachment Merseyside Army Cadet Force has been named CVQO Regional Ambassador for 2016.
She topped the public vote at the end of a month-long period and will now hold the title for one year, helping CVQO promote potentially life-changing vocational qualifications to younger cadets in the Liverpool area.
The cadets in the running were all nominated by their youth groups for CVQO’s Duke of Westminster Award and took part in a selection event in April.
Fifteen candidates were in the running for title of Regional Ambassador and Caitlin will now be able to join the ten CVQO Duke of Westminster Award National Finalists for a celebratory lunch at the House of Lords on Thursday 30 June.
Caitlin, 18, of Liverpool, Merseyside, was originally nominated due to her work as a volunteer peer mentor at her local school and her National Citizenship Service course. In addition, she helped raise over £2,000 for the bereavement department at Alder Hey Hospital.
Though they have demonstrated ability within their youth groups, the candidates have all been nominated in recognition of their altruistic spirit – to help those around them, overcome personal challenges or provide help to their communities.
Guy Horridge, chief executive of CVQO, said: “The CVQO Regional Ambassador represents a very important role at the charity. The winner will work together with us and their local youth groups to champion vocational qualifications, helping younger cadets follow in their footsteps.
“Many young people don’t realise the breadth of vocational qualifications that are available to them just by attending their local youth group, most of which come at no cost to the learner. These are invaluable and sometimes a BTEC or Institute of Leadership and Management qualification, for example, will make the difference in securing a place at higher education or a new job.
“The CVQO Duke of Westminster Award recognises selflessness and community spirit in youth group members and the Regional Ambassador competition is a great way to offer a reward to those who have benefitted so much themselves by giving them a chance to show others the real difference it can make.”
