IN PICTURES: Derry community heroes honoured at 'BBC Make a Difference Awards'

The winners of the inaugural BBC Make a Difference Awards in Northern Ireland have been announced.

The eight local community heroes, from across Northern Ireland, were announced live on BBC Radio Ulster’s Vinny and Cate show on Friday morning (September 26) at a special event held in BBC Blackstaff studios in Belfast.

Young Hero Award Winner – Judged by Joel M – awarded to Seanain McCallion, Derry - Seanain, 13, has raised thousands of pounds for local children’s charities through events she organised herself. Through her openness about her journey, she breaks down barriers with laughter and heart and is a shining example of resilience, generosity, and unstoppable spirit.

Active Award Winner – Judged by Marissa Callaghan - awarded to Jennifer Smyth, Derry - After a life-changing injury at 16, Jennifer Smyth turned adversity into action by founding Northern Ireland’s first neuro-focused gym. Jenn’s Gym offers a safe, inclusive space for people with disabilities to move, connect, and thrive.

Green Award – Judged by Dara McAnulty – awarded to Aimee Mallon, Derry - Noticing a lack of wellbeing opportunities for Key Stage 3 pupils, Aimee Mallon restored a school greenhouse and developed projects that included gardening, seed swapping and environmental education to create a nurturing, inclusive space for pupils and teachers alike.

PICTURED BELOW: The winners of the inaugural BBC Make a Difference Awards in Northern Ireland hosted by BBC Radio Ulster and BBC Radio Foyle with presenters Vinny Hurrell and Cate Conway and judges. The judges were Holly Hamilton, Joel M, Dara McAnulty, Hugo Duncan MBE, Kwame Daniels, Kerri Quinn, Marissa Callaghan and Anne-Marie Wallace (not in photo).

We want your photos to feature on the website via our Camera Club. Do you have a great photo from life in the locality? Whether it’s a party, wedding, communion, landscape, a quirky shot from your archives, or a simple everyday moment, we want your snapshots.

We are inviting people to share photos that capture the spirit of the county. From special occasions to quieter moments, your pictures help tell the story of everyday life in our community.

To submit:

Go to the Camera Club page and follow the instructions to upload your photo. Include your name, where it was taken, and a short caption if you can. 

Your photo could be featured on our website and newspaper and seen by readers across the county and beyond. 

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