An epic trip to London: Youth Matters Awards Finalist, Magnus  

On Friday 14th November, YMCA Exeter volunteer and previous resident, Magnus and some fellow YMCA friends set off to London for the National YMCA Youth Matters Awards. We loved hearing how it went.  

The travel to the event is not usually a large part of the evening, but when you start travelling five hours prior to the event opening, it becomes no small part of the larger day.  

We took both train and taxi whilst travelling to the event, our travel punctuated by the landscape we passed – first the South West’s magnificent countryside, then London’s bustling and historic streets.  

We finally arrived at the event.  

Once we had dressed accordingly, we took some memorable photos and began to socialise with people from many other YMCA’s.  

Eventually, we went into the awards ceremony and enjoyed a meal together before the award ceremony itself began.  

We heard stories from other candidates and many touching tributes to the YMCA at both a local and national level. Each award was presented by a different person – some from the YMCA board, others long-time sponsors and friends of the YMCA.  

YMCA Exeter had two nominees up for awards – Myself, for Young Volunteer of the year, and Millie for Young Achiever of the year. Millie won her category, and I left as a finalist but with my head held high.  

We both raised some awareness about YMCA Exeter’s excellent charitable work and its effect on those of us who have been supported by it. YMCA Exeter has fewer than 100 employees and volunteers, and when compared to others who employ hundreds, having two finalists is in itself is an incredible achievement.  

On the whole, it was an enjoyable event and a great night for YMCA Exeter.  

While the food was excellent, the atmosphere great, and a rare chance to visit London, my favourite parts of the night were meeting so many like-minded folk who suggested further ways to be involved and to keep in contact, and receiving a rare “Lydia-hug” following my video section on why I help the YMCA Exeter!  

In short, a great night, a fantastic trip, and a small induction into the world of the wider YMCA community. 

We are so proud of Magnus for reaching the finals. He models humility, kindness and grace in all of his volunteering at YMCA Exeter.