Mum's tears of joy as South Tyneside schoolgirl named North East's most inspiring young woman

Grace McNulty, 15, from Jarrow, was honoured for her hard work in the community as part of NE Youth’s International Women’s Day Awards, winning the Inspiring Young Female Award.

Hebburn Comprehensive School pupil is a member of the Central Jarrow Detached Youth Project (CJDYP), and awards organisers said her spirit and efforts were an inspiration to others.

Warren Crake, Youth Development Officer at CJDYP, said: “Grace has been a member of the youth project since it started over six years ago. She has been the driving force behind so much in her community.

“She has empathy for others, especially those who seem to be more in need of support. The list of things she has suggested that the youth project has been involved with is almost endless”

Warren said Grace has been instrumental in a number of community initiatives as part of the group, raising money for charity and supporting local causes over the last several years.

He said Grace’s hard work and dedication to support her community had made her a stand out choice for the award.

The award came as a lovely surprise to Grace’s Mum, Jane Cowell, who is blown away by how much Grace has achieved.

She said: “I’m so proud of her, I cried my eyes out when she told me she won. She’s always putting others first and is definitely an inspiration.

“Youth groups are such a necessity for young people. I’m so grateful for CJDYP and everything they’ve done for Grace and others.”

Due to her involvement with CJDYP, Grace has future ambitious of pursuing a career in youth work once she leaves school.

The CJDYP is a church-based Saturday youth group which delivers outreach work in central Jarrow.

Fellow CJDYP member Kayla Ford was also nominated for the NE Youth Inspiring Young Female Award and placed third for her outstanding efforts working within the community.

NE Youth is a leading North East youth development charity which supports young people and organisations in the communities they live and work in.

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