A 16-year-old from Carrickfergus has been named Young Person of the Year at the Northern Ireland Social Enterprise Awards 2026.

Sophie Bagchus, who runs Sophie Bagchus Marketing, received the award at a ceremony at the Crowne Plaza Belfast on Friday 23 October. The category was sponsored by Construction Futures, represented by its Head of Strategic Development, Fionnuala McKenna.

Bagchus joined Carrickfergus Enterprise's Tourism Academy in 2024, following mental health challenges that had disrupted her education. The programme was funded by the Labour Market Partnership and offered her an opportunity to rebuild her confidence while developing practical skills.

Christine Watson of Watson Marketing mentored Bagchus and helped her secure an opportunity to provide marketing support to Carrickfergus Enterprise in September 2024.

Bagchus said the award meant a lot to her, as when she joined the Tourism Academy she was building her confidence and working out what her future could look like. She said having people believe in her and give her a chance to learn through real work had made a difference.

Carrickfergus Enterprise Vice Chair David McIlhagger said the organisation was incredibly proud of Bagchus, and praised her creativity, care and willingness to learn. He said her work had made a measurable difference to how the organisation connects with businesses and the wider community.

Her marketing work helped Carrickfergus Enterprise's Facebook reach increase to 250,600 in the first seven months of 2026, surpassing the 189,800 recorded throughout all of 2025. A campaign she proposed featuring photographs of former participants and personal stories generated almost 30 enquiries.

Earlier this year, Bagchus completed the New Opportunities programme delivered by LEDCOM, receiving mentoring and a grant to purchase DJI camera equipment.

The award comes as Carrickfergus Enterprise celebrates its 45th anniversary.