Yesterday we, with great pride, announced the national finalists for the vInspired National Awards 2012.

We had the honour of meeting the finalists, who are truly some of the most inspirational young people and youth workers in the country, when they came down to London for a photoshoot and filming session last weekend. One of the questions we asked them was: “How does it feel to reach the finals of these awards?” Almost all, after expressing their surprise and gratitude to their nominators, said: “You don’t do it to win awards”.

While we are determined to shine a light on these remarkable people, we know that our recognition will not make the slightest difference to their passion and enthusiasm for their causes. From football coaching, to dance and helping young people with mental health issues, our finalists show a selflessness and energy that few of us can understand, let alone replicate.

Although the awards recognise the skills, experience and confidence volunteering has given them – which in many cases has helped them to land their dream jobs – when asked what they love most about volunteering, the answer from our finalists was always that they love the difference they see in the people they help. As Zoe, one of our finalists, put it: “I just love knowing I’ve put a smile on their faces.”

So, whilst we recognise that we cannot inspire our national finalists and regional winners any further (they are out to change the world and nothing is going to stop them), we know that their passion and achievements can only inspire others to think about what they care about, and believe that they can make a positive difference.

Our action-packed awards ceremony will be taking place on 22 March. Watch this space for further details and updates. 

You can read all about our amazing regional winners and national awards finalists, as well as finding out more about the awards, over on our vInspired National Awards pages.