In 2023 and 2024 This is Youth recognised and celebrated the amazing stories behind the DofE, showcasing young people and the adults who supported them doing what they do best: rising above today’s challenges and making their mark on the world. The stories celebrated how each DofE journey is unique and how every young person made a difference.
From teamwork and innovation to overcoming personal challenges, we shone a light on the amazing things that young people do through their DofE, no matter their age or Award level, to inspire and encourage others.
We highlighted the unrivalled commitment, passion and innovation of the adults who power the DofE – changing the lives of the young people they support. This is Youth showcased the range and reach of the DofE, celebrating the untold stories that deserve recognition.
This is Youth was made up of seven unique categories, each designed to recognise the inspirational stories of our young people and adult volunteers.
Learn more about each category.
Creativity: Innovator of the Year
Kindly supported by Aveva
Celebrating young people who are breaking new ground and problem-solving with innovative ideas through their DofE.
Community Impact: Change Maker of the Year
Kindly supported by British Airways
Celebrating the local heroes who have made a positive impact in their community.
Teamwork: All-stars of the Year
Celebrating a group of young people who have banded together to achieve something extraordinary.
Leadership: Trailblazer of the Year
Kindly supported by The Gosling Foundation
Celebrating the young people who demonstrate incredible leadership skills by using their voices to make a difference, leading the way, or advocating for others.
Resilience: Boundary Breaker of the Year
Celebrating young people who have overcome their own challenges to achieve something personally life-changing, rewriting the rules on what they thought was possible.
Inspirational Adult: Life Changer of the Year
Recognising DofE Leaders, Managers, and volunteers who have gone above and beyond to open up opportunities to young people through their DofE.
Exceptional Service: Torchbearer of the Year
Celebrating an adult who has dedicated more than 10 years to supporting DofE participants, making a lasting impact on countless young people and communities.
Read the inspiring stories from our 2023 and 2024 This is Youth winners and special mentions.
In 2024 we invited the DofE community to celebrate and share stories of young people and adults making a positive difference through their DofE journey, watch back.
