A visually impaired podcaster, a hugely talented harpist and a school choir were amongst the winners at the North American Manx Association (NAMA) awards this week.
The annual awards recognise “outstanding achievements” by young people and honour their contribution to Manx culture.
Evie Roberts, who hosts her own podcast ‘Talking in the Dark‘, received the Manx Community Award for the inspirational audio series.
Young Talent Recognised
The 14-year-old Ballakermeen student has had thought-provoking interviews with actor Stephen Fry and Michelin starred chef, Michel Roux Jr.
The teenager, whose podcasts have attracted a global audience by illuminating the triumphs and challenges of living with visual impairments, said: “I love what I do and I am delighted to win this fantastic award.”
The judges said her “talent and dedication” has served as a “beacon of empowerment and understanding” for the Manx blind communities.
NAMA Award Winners
Fourteen-year-old harpist Resa Brown, who performed at the ceremony picked up the Manx music award.
Queen Elizabeth II High School’s Ellis Pierce was recognised for his dedication to the Manx language and Scott Brown, 15, for his artworks inspired by Manx Celtic crosses.
Meanwhile, Scoill Phurt le Moirrey school choir and Ynsee Gaelg, a local group that supports young people learning Manx, both picked up culture awards.
Laurence Skelly MLC, President of Tynwald and Past President of NAMA, also presented special awards to Frank Kelly and Mian Watterson for making exceptional progress with the Manx language in 2024.
He said: ‘Recognising our heritage and culture gives a sense of unity and belonging so it is crucial to acknowledge these fantastic young people for their outstanding contribution.’
All eight winners received an engraved silver medallion from NAMA’s Jane Sailor-Morey.
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