Chamber members have scooped up multiple awards at this year’s Derry Journal People of the Year Awards. Created to recognise the North West’s unsung community heroes and share their inspirational and uplifting stories, the People of the Year Awards showcase the best of what Derry has to offer.

Gary Rutherford, a Registered Mental Health Nurse, received the Community Champion of the Year Award forhis pioneering work in founding and operating the community-based addiction recovery service, ARC Fitness. A charity that offers physical activity, education, and community for individuals and families affected by substance use, ARC Fitness empowers individuals impacted by substance abuse to embrace and reach their fullest potential.

Seamus Nealis, Managing Director at Craft Training, received the coveted Business Person of the Year Award. Craft Training is a family run business, set up by husband and wife team Seamus and Marie Nealis in 1994. Craft Training have over 30 years’ experience and have become a leading supplier of training for qualifications and NVQs, with a repertoire of over 60 courses on offer to learners of all ages from all walks of life.

Sean Curran from North West Regional College won the Inspirational Educator of the Year Award for his work as Team leader with the Prince’s Trust at the college. The Princes Trust Team programme at NWRC is aimed at boosting the employability skills of young people, and the course Sean runs helps young people that are not currently in work or education to build on personal development, learn new skills and boost their confidence.

Separately at the Local Women’s Magazine Inspirational Women of the Year Awards, Pamela Capriglione was nominated as a finalist for the ‘Most Inspirational Outstanding Support for Students’ award for her work with Neuro Skillshop. Neuro Skillshop provides play-based creative therapeutic programs designed for children of all abilities, with a particular emphasis on supporting autistic and neurodivergent children and young people.

These awards have recognised the contribution and commitment of individuals across the North West, putting a spotlight on individuals and organisations who go above and beyond. Derry Chamber are delighted to see the inspirational work of our members being recognised.