Youth leader recognised for girl project

Nicola King, who is a youth and community participation worker for Aragon Housing Association, was picked from hundreds of entries for the National Housing Federation’s What We Are Proud Of Awards.

The Shefford resident was singled out in the category of Outstanding Individual for her work with the Girlzone Project which provides activities and education for young girls between the ages of 13 and 19.

Nicola said: “I was surprised and delighted to be chosen. I feel passionate about my work with young people in the local area which I have been building up for five years.”

Girlzone provides activities including hair styling, nail art and fitness but, most importantly, it provides a safe and confidential space for young women to discuss issues.

Aragon’s managing director, Aileen Evans, said: “Nicola has achieved outstanding results in her work with young people in our communities and the Girlzone project is just one of the many schemes she leads which focus on the needs of young people in our communities.

“I am delighted that her work has been recognised in this field.”

Nicola will join other regional finalists from across the East of England at a ceremony in Newmarket on Thursday, June 30.