A young apprentice working in South Tyneside is celebrating after winning a prestigious construction award.
Elizabeth Ahmed, who works for South Tyneside Homes, was recognised as the Apprentice of the Year in the Female Mechanical and Building Category, at the 12th annual Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE) Local Authority and Training Awards.
The awards not only recognise the skills of future tradespersons, but also the organisations that supply first class training through modern apprenticeship schemes.
Elizabeth, who is from South Shields, joined South Tyneside Homes as an Apprentice Electrician in September 2007. Over the past three years the 22-year-old has achieved NVQ Level 2 in Electro-Technical Services and is currently working towards Level 3.
The award-winners were announced at the APSE Annual Conference in Manchester. As the overall winner in her category, Elizabeth was presented with her trophy prize by the Chair of APSE Housing, Construction and Building Maintenance Advisory Group, South Lanarkshire Councillor Jim Docherty.
Elizabeth said: "I'm really honoured to have won this national award and to represent South Tyneside Homes as a company. I would like to thank everyone who helped with my submission and provided me with excellent references."
Gary Kirsop, Head of Property Services at South Tyneside Homes, added: "This is a fantastic achievement for Elizabeth that recognises all of the hard work that she has put in during the last couple of years. It is also a positive reflection on South Tyneside Homes and all of our workforce and their commitment and dedication to continue to provide excellent services to our customers."
South Tyneside Homes currently employ 26 apprentices gaining skills in plastering, joinery, electrical and plumbing. The company were also recently recognised as the North-East's Large Apprentice Employer of the Year at the regional Apprenticeship Service Awards.
Mark Whittle, Director of Investment at South Tyneside Homes, said: "Elizabeth should be extremely proud of her achievements. It is great to see that our apprentices are being recognised on a national level for their work. Our Apprenticeship programme is a fantastic way for young people in the borough to gain practical skills in a number of trade areas."
Caption (left to right): Councillor Jim Docherty, Elizabeth Ahmed, Gary Kirsop and APSE Assistant Chief Executive, Mark Bramah.
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