Athlone students recognised at Garda Youth Awards ceremony

Three Athlone students were recipients of Garda Youth Awards in a ceremony held in the Civic Centre on Monday evening.

The An Garda Síochána Westmeath Youth Awards recognise individuals and groups who have carried out outstanding work, made a positive impact or enjoyed significant achievements within their communities.

Marist College student Yevgen Marksymiak was the recipient of the Special Achievement award, an accolade given to an individual who has defied the odds in difficult circumstances.

Yevgen arrived in Athlone from Ukraine at the age of 13 having been impacted by the war in his native country.

However, he quickly immersed himself in school life and has become an optimistic and positive presence with his peers in the Marist College.

He lives in a house with 16 others and is continuously helping the children with whom he lives.

In her award citation, Garda Stacey Looby said Yevgen was "an inspiration" in both his school and community.

Meanwhile, two students from Athlone Community College, James Duffy and Maeve Murphy, were the overall winners of the Group award, presented to those who have made a positive contribution to their community.

The pair created a video highlighting the impact of illegal dumping in the urban and rural areas of Athlone.

"Entitled 'The Choice', the video was deemed the best way to get their message across on the ramifications of illegal dumping.

The video inspired their peers to become more proactive on the issue with a number of litter picks in black spot locations organised by the students of the school.

Reading the award citation, Garda Youth Liaison Officer, Eugene Boland, said the video inspired the students to come together "with a common aim" and highlighted the "spirit of volunteerism".

Two additional accolades were also presented during the ceremony, Wilson's Hospital student Clodagh Ramsey winning the Individual award for her role in championing sustainability.

Meanwhile, transition year students from Coláiste Mhuire Mullingar, were recognised with the Community Safety award for a road safety campaign which they spearheaded in conjunction with Westmeath County Council.