UCM Student Receives North American Manx Association Award

University College Isle of Man (UCM) student, Amy Struthers, won the ‘Manx Community award’, a prize presented to a young person with special educational needs in recognition of their outstanding efforts in overcoming personal challenges.

The North American Manx Awards (NAMA) honour the achievements of children and young people who have made an outstanding contribution to Manx culture in areas such as language, music and the arts.

Amy Struthers, who, as part of her studies, works in the Annie Gill Café at UCM, was presented with a silver medal by David Holmes who is a member of NAMA.

Amy, who is in her final year of part time provision on the General Studies course, explained: “I never expected to receive this award, so it has been a big surprise to me. I feel very proud of myself and would like to thank NAMA for the recognition. I’m thoroughly enjoying my course at UCM and I’ve learnt lots of practical skills working in the Annie Gill Café which I’m excited to be able to use when I finish my qualification.”

The awards have been run each year since 1978, when the convention of the NAMA was assembled at Rocky River, Ohio, and resolved to spend $1,000 on a project to commemorate the Millennium of Tynwald in 1979.

Alison Higson, Programme Manager for Foundation Learning, added: “Amy is an incredibly hardworking student who approaches every challenge with a positive and determined attitude. We are extremely proud that Amy is receiving recognition for her efforts and it is very well deserved.”