Southern Regional College student Rachel Carvill received the Youth Impact Award at the Newry, Mourne and Down Chairperson’s Civic Awards on Friday, 20 February 2026. The event took place at Millbrook Lodge Hotel in Ballynahinch. The award recognises young people under 18 for achievements, leadership, creativity or community contribution.

Rachel Carvill, 17, secured two gold medals at the World TaeKwonDo Championships, plus Ulster and All-Ireland boxing titles. She pursues an electrical installation apprenticeship at the college. Her employer Murray & McEvoy noted her work ethic, learning ability and colleague support. She specialises in solar panel installation and handles related tasks independently.

Dr Liz Finnegan and the ICAS team earned recognition in the Arts, Culture & Heritage category. ICAS is the Interdisciplinary Conference in Arts and Science, held each January at the college’s Newry campus. It draws artists, writers and researchers.

Sarah Ryan from the Organisational Development Team and Jason Brennan from the Student Engagement Team received commendations for fundraising. They manage the college’s social responsibility activities, including charity funds, foodbanks and toy appeals.

Lee Campbell, Principal and Chief Executive of Southern Regional College, congratulated the recipients. She stated their achievements show the college’s dedication, talent and community involvement.