Cornwall’s next generation of superstars

A budding scientist, a manufacturing engineer and a mining geologist have become the first recipients of the new Young & Talented Cornwall Spirit of Trevithick award.

Created to help Cornwall’s brightest young minds in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) to launch their careers and reach their potential, the funding and mentoring scheme fosters tomorrow’s innovators. Recipients are paired with an established Cornwall company or innovator for invaluable expert advice and have access to a cash prize of up to £2,000 towards the development of a specific project or piece of equipment.

17-year-old Lily Butler (Helston) is among the talented trio. The award will support her as she travels to Thailand to represent Camborne Science and the International Academy at an international science fair and competition. Meanwhile, Constantine’s Arthur Ax (aged 14) aims for a career in advanced manufacturing and explores the principles of aerodynamics while studying at Penryn College. For Naomi Watson (22, Penryn), the award brings her one step closer to studying a mine ventilation course in America.

The Spirit of Trevithick Award is the latest initiative of Young & Talented Cornwall, The Lord Lieutenant’s Fund, which since 2005 has awarded over £400,000 in grants to rising stars of tomorrow in a wide range of skill areas.

As well as supporting young people who show outstanding promise in STEM, more than 30 grants have also been awarded to 14-23 year olds with impressive potential in everything from surfing and swimming to music and the performing arts.

The latest Young & Talented Cornwall recipients gathered for an evening of celebration at the University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, where they were congratulated by Colonel Sir Edward Bolitho, Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall, who leads the initiative.

He said: “We have run the Young & Talent Cornwall Awards for almost 20 years and in that time we have supported so many amazingly talented young people, including sportswomen from Helen Glover to Molly Caudrey.

“The final 36 recipients have such capacity and potential and I am honored to be able to help them on their way with the support of our generous sponsors and partners.

“As the first recipients of our Spirit of Trevithick Award, Lily, Arthur and Naomi in particular are trailblazers. They are following in the footsteps of Cornwall’s great innovators and forging a new path that will enrich their own futures as well as Cornwall’s.”

Ian Jones, CEO of Goonhilly Space Station and curator of the Spirit of Trevithick Award, added: “I had the pleasure of chairing the application review panel and was overwhelmed by the quality, passion and ambition that shone through. Supporting today’s youth is an investment in tomorrow. It is a joy to contribute to the cultivation of talent in the STEM space and the development of passions and interests.”

Applications for the next round of grants are now open until the end of July. For more information visit www.youngandtalentedcornwall.org