Martins Banjo

As a Politics and Religious Studies student at St Francis Xavier Sixth Form College, Martins, 19, has always shown interest in the Common Good, however in summer 2015 this interest developed into action.

Martins devised a campaign to address a problem close to his heart. Having witnessed first-hand the social disadvantages caused by low awareness, Martins came up with the idea of the 'Life-skills Curriculum' which aims to prepare teenagers for the practical challenges of adult life.

The curriculum - which Martin hopes will be taught in secondary schools - will cover topics such as finance, taxes, employment, and voter registration. As part of his curriculum plan, he also hopes to engage the support of companies, to offer internships and apprenticeships to school leavers.

Martins feels strongly that knowledge and opportunities are vital to prevent the poorest members of society from being exploited and excluded. Martins visited the Houses of Parliament to discuss his idea with his MP Neil Coyle and Coyle has offered a written endorsement of Martins campaign. Martins next move is to write an Early Day Motion and then to put forward a petition which would need 100 MPs signatures.

The motivation for Martins campaign comes from awareness of people's dignity and his passion for justice. Martins is a considerate and kind student, with the drive and determination to make life better for others.

What they said: “Though ambitious, Martins is a humble leader and team player not self-serving but desirous to serve.” – Clare Colleran, College Chaplain

Alice Stella

Alice, 20, mentors students at Saint Francis Xavier College, South London, where she also supports teaching staff.

Over the last year Alice has volunteered as a language and business studies assistant, running workshops, helping to create resources, even on one emergency occasion covering an Italian class! All Alice’s teachers speak highly of her assistance - often provided in her free time - and also of the support and reassurance she gives weaker students.

Her workis made all the more notable as she also holds down two part-time jobs to supplement the household income. Many of her teachers have remarked on how giving Alice is towards her peers and at the same time sensitive towards retaining their individual dignity.

As well as her work supporting the development of students, Alice has been active locally supporting Calais refugees. Alice not only encouraged her tutor group to raise funds, she also independently instigated a successful appeal for clothing and toiletries.

What they said: “Alice has a desire to live out her Catholic faith, which she believes asks and inspires her to value and care for others” – Claire Colleran, College Chaplain

Corey Scott

Despite great physical restrictions, Corey, 23 from Lancashire, has worked tirelessly over many years to improve the living standards of those who live with disabilities, including access to education and work, through his lobbying for better laws in the new Children and Families Act. Corey brings his first-hand experience of the pressures and difficulties which young disabled people encounter to his work.

Corey gained a reputation for being one of the more outspoken students in his college, with his refreshing no nonsense, straight talking approach to tackling the challenges which disabled people face day in, day out. He has staunchly represented the interests of the disabled community, taking the fight to Parliament to improve the chances of young disabled people.

It’s hard to overstate the amount of volunteering Corey does, from keynote speeches before vast audiences to fundraiser days and going on an annual pilgrimage with HCPT.

What they said: “Corey does not let this condition get in the way of his selfless activities” – Mathew Quinn, Blackburn College

“A truly inspirational young man” – David Huxley, University Centre Blackburn College