Swale Young People
616. Patrick Cantellow
Patrick Cantellow is the 17-year- old founder of ‘Swale Young People’, an organisation improving the employability of young people in his hometown of Sittingbourne and the surrounding area.
Through Swale Young People, Patrick runs a Young Ambassador Network giving access to volunteering and social action opportunities, training events, and conferences. Patrick is currently planning the first Swale Young People conference for Young Ambassadors, professionals and locals and will in January launch a Young Enterprise Network, supporting local young people to start their own business.
As well as running Swale Young People, Patrick works full time as a Digital Marketing apprentice and is actively involved with NCS and various children’s charities as a volunteer.
Patrick was presented with his award by the Minister for Civil Society, Rob Wilson MP, at the launch of this year’s #iwill Ambassadors programme, held at the Houses of Parliament.
In a personal letter to Patrick, Prime Minister Theresa May said:
“Through Swale Young People you are giving young people the opportunity to gain confidence and new skills. Your work is inspiring and is changing lives.”
Patrick said:
“I am highly grateful to be presented with this prestigious award from Prime Minister Theresa May. It’s such a surprise to be rewarded for my volunteering work as I enjoy it so much and just take it in my stride. I shall continue working heavily on Swale Young People, The Mill Skatepark and my volunteering with numerous organisations whom I adore and respect for giving me amazing opportunities. Particular thanks to the NSPCC, NCS, Step Up To Serve and local organisations in Swale. I hope being recognised gets young people out and about and making real change in their communities!”