Celebrating Midlothian’s Inspirational Young People
Outstanding young people were honoured as winners of the Midlothian Young People Awards in a special ceremony at the iconic Rosslyn Chapel last night (25 November).
Young people who make a difference
These awards celebrate young people who live, work, or study in Midlothian and whose efforts make a real difference in their local communities.
A true team effort
This inspiring initiative is delivered in partnership by the council’s Communities Lifelong Learning and Employability (CLLE) team, Midlothian’s Lord-Lieutenant and deputes, the Midlothian Youth Platform, and other young people.
Welcomed
Councillor Ellen Scott, Cabinet Member for Education, Children and Young People launched proceedings by warmly welcoming everyone to the event - which was hosted by Group Service Manager Annette Lang supported by college pupil, Eustace Oweh as co-host.
Presentations
Winners were announced and awards presented by Midlothian Lord-Lieutenant, Sarah Barron and Provost Debbie McCall.
Categories & winners
There are five categories of awards:
The Caring and Volunteering Award
This award recognises young people who volunteer in caring activities within Midlothian.
- Winner: Abbie Notman
Abbie, a young carer supporting her mum, recently graduated with an honours degree in psychology while balancing caring responsibilities and part-time work. Through the Midlothian Young Carers Project, she now volunteers weekly at a tuition group to help other young carers find time and space to study. Her dedication, ambition, and commitment to giving back make her an outstanding role model in the community.
- Runners-up: Sapphire Rich and Scarlett Richardson
Sapphire and Scarlett are two 10-year-old girls who spent their summer holidays raising £180 by making loom band bracelets and selling them at a stall in Bonnyrigg to help a family in need. They donated essentials to a food bank and bought Tesco, Just Eat, and Vue cinema vouchers so families could enjoy meals and treats together. Their thoughtful efforts show incredible generosity and community spirit at such a young age.
The Sport and Physical Activity Award
This recognises success and outstanding improvement and achievement in a sport for a particular team of individuals or for one individual.
- Winner: Alina Prokopenko
Alina has achieved incredible success in rugby, progressing from picking up a ball for the first time a year ago to representing Scotland U18 Girls in the Six Nations. Her commitment includes training four nights a week while balancing equestrian pursuits, and she now gives back by coaching at Dalkeith Rugby Club and supporting school rugby programmes. Alina’s rapid rise, dedication, and community involvement make her an inspiring role model for young athletes in Midlothian.
- Runners-up: Ben Matthews, Isobel Crease and Meisha Smith
Ben, Isobel, and Meisha all volunteer with Beeslack Community Education’s Dolphin swimming lessons, supporting over 300 young people from preschool to teens. Ben brings energy and enthusiasm, helping children overcome fears and build confidence, while Isobel offers warmth and reassurance to those nervous about entering the pool. Meisha gives up her weekends to patiently teach skills with calmness and kindness, making a real difference through her dedication.
The Arts and Culture Award
This recognises outstanding achievement in performance, visual arts, music, singing, dance, creative arts and media.
- Winner: Lauren Queripel
Lauren, an Edinburgh choir member, has performed at major events including the Edinburgh Military Tattoo and Usher Hall, committing to weekly rehearsals and mastering complex songs as part of the alto section. Despite living with a learning disability and coping with grief, she has gained independence and developed resilience over the past two years. Lauren is a strong advocate for young people with learning disabilities in Midlothian, actively contributing to transitional working groups and inspiring others through her determination.
- Runner up: Reece Urquhart
Reece creates unique sculptures entirely from recycled materials he collects from parks, roadsides, beaches, and other public spaces, believing that “one person’s junk is his treasure.” His art reflects personal stories and often conveys humorous messages to those close to him, providing a creative outlet in a challenging world. Living with supportive grandparents and learning through Beeslack Annex, Reece’s award acknowledged his remarkable talent and perseverance in turning discarded items into meaningful works of art.
The Achievement in Learning Award
This recognises young people who are involved in educational activities at school, college, youth work, and training etc, who demonstrate a commitment in developing skills for work and care about the future of young people in Midlothian.
- Winner: Mia Brown
Mia has been part of the Y2K project for over four years, progressing from youth representative to volunteer and now Youth Work Assistant. She is passionate about children’s rights and community engagement, creating resources like a presentation on children’s rights and leading groups to ensure young voices are heard. Currently studying a Learning & Communities course at Edinburgh University, Mia uses her knowledge to empower young people and make a positive impact in her community.
- Runner-up: Christopher Abioye
Christopher, a hearing child with a deaf sibling, has shown incredible dedication by learning British Sign Language to communicate fully with his brother. He prioritises accessibility in everyday situations and often sacrifices his own interests, like football, to focus on language learning. His commitment and love for his brother are inspiring, making him a remarkable advocate for inclusion at such a young age.
The Community Award
This recognises the role young people play in their local community which make a real difference locally, to a village, town or local area.
- Winner: Emilie Crawford
Emilie is passionate about protecting the environment, taking action through litter picking, designing bins at school, and campaigning for more bins in her village of Newtongrange. She also grows plants and trees and is known for her eco-friendly lifestyle, even riding her bike camouflaged with leaves to avoid disturbing wildlife. Her mission is to install one of her bins outside her favourite place - the library. She hopes to achieve this soon with the support from her head teacher.
- Runner-up: Aimee Robertson.
Aimee has been volunteering as a Young Leader with Rosewell Cub Scouts since August 2024, supporting activities for children aged 8–10 and acting as a positive role model. She also volunteers at The Steading during school holidays, helping deliver sports, arts, and outdoor sessions for local primary children. Aimee’s enthusiasm, empathy, and commitment, shown through giving up her own time for events like a full-day trip to Blair Drummond Safari Park, make her an invaluable contributor to her community.
The Midlothian Award
This goes to a young person who is chosen from all the nominations and recognises their outstanding contribution to Midlothian as a whole.
- Winner: Scott Dutnell
Scott is a dedicated young bagpiper with the Glencorse Pipe Band. He has spent the past two years raising funds for numerous charities and bringing joy to care homes and community events. His selflessness, commitment to helping others, including supporting a family member with cancer and passion for piping have earned him the Midlothian Award for outstanding contribution to his local community.
Spotlight on remarkable talents, achievements, and contributions
Commenting on the young people’s achievements for the Midlothian Young People Awards Lord-Lieutenant, Sarah Barron said:
“This year’s Awards Ceremony has provided a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our amazing young people and I would like offer my warmest congratulations to all those involved in the Midlothian’s Young People Awards 2025. These awards shine a spotlight on the remarkable talents, achievements, and contributions of our young people, who continue to inspire us with their dedication, creativity, and amazing community spirit. I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to everyone who takes the time to nominate these outstanding individuals. Your nominations help ensure that the exceptional efforts of our young people are recognised and celebrated across Midlothian."
Role models
Midlothian Provost, Cllr Debbi McCall was very impressed with the winners achievements. She said:
"Congratulations to all the winners of the Midlothian Young People Awards 2025! These awards are a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the determination, talent, and positive impact of young people in our community. Every winner should feel incredibly proud of their achievements - they are true role models who inspire others. A huge thank you to everyone who took the time to make a nomination and help shine a light on these amazing contributions."
Midlothian poetry & rap competition
Success was also celebrated on the night for the winners of the council's Book Week Scotland writing competition which invited young people from our secondary schools to write a short poem or rap on the theme of Friendship. Entries were judged on structure, creativity, and imagination by a panel including young people and renowned poet Matt Kelly. Winners were Riley Ward from Saltersgate School with the heartfelt piece “My School” and runner up was Madeleine Duncker from Penicuik High School with with “Slimy Friendship.
Event support
Catering for the guests attending the event was provided by Midlothian pupils who are hospitality foundation apprentices. Local photographer Lee Live took photos of proceedings and kindly provided his services for free because he aims to support charities and organisations that are making an impact in people's lives. Musical entertainment was also provided at this event by young people from Midlothian.