A north-east teenager has been honoured for her efforts to create and sustain positive change.
Youngsters from across Scotland were presented with the highest accolade they can achieve for social action or humanitarian efforts – The Diana Award.
The scheme was launched 20 years ago in memory of the Princess of Wales.
Among this year’s recipients was nine-year-old Isabelle Curno, from Maud in Aberdeenshire.
The Maud Primary School pupil was recognised for her ability to “inspire and mobilise her own generation” through fundraising.
Following the loss of her grandfather to cancer in 2015, Isabelle wanted to ensure that money was not a barrier to people receiving medicine or support, and that families are able to access help when needed.
Through fundraisers such as car boot sales and sponsored events, Isabelle has raised over £2,000 for various charities including Cancer Research, Bare Necessities, Charlie House and her school’s laptop fund.
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“I was excited but also a bit nervous,” she said about the awards ceremony.
“Others at school think it’s wonderful that I got the award and I think its very important for young people to do charity work.
“I really enjoy it.
“I do things like a Christmas fete, stalls at coffee evenings and did a step challenge where I walked 30,000 steps for charity.”
Isabelle attended the ceremony on Friday with her mother, sister and father.
Father John Curno said: “We are so proud, Princess Diana is a terrific role model and its really poignant for Isabelle to receive this award.
“When her grandfather died she asked us why he didn’t get better, and we explained that cancer unfortunately doesn’t have a cure – but that scientists have been working on one.
“From there she was determined to raise money for charities, and told us ‘she didn’t want any of her friends to lose someone they love to cancer.'”
Tessy Ojo, chief executive of The Diana Award, added: “We congratulate all our new Diana Award Holders from Scotland who are change-makers for their generation.
“We know by receiving this honour they will inspire more young people to get involved in their communities and begin their own journey as active citizens.”
