An important part of maintaining our links with our homeland is the annual awarding of silver medals to children and young adults who preserve Manx culture and are a credit to their community. Congratulations to the 2026 recipients, and to the Isle of Man Government and Manx North American Manx Association members who put this event together.
Isle of Man Government
Young people helping to keep the Manx language and culture alive were among those recognised at today’s North American Manx Association (NAMA) awards ceremony. 
The annual ceremony recognises the outstanding achievements of young people on the Isle of Man and their contribution to Manx culture in areas such as language, music, dance, arts and community involvement.
As the Isle of Man celebrates Blein ny Gaelgey (Year of Manx), several awards highlighted the dedication and enthusiasm of young people learning, promoting and championing the Manx language.
Meredith Wade, a sixth form student at Queen Elizabeth II High School, received the Outstanding Achievement in Manx Language (Key Stage 3-5) award for her commitment to learning and promoting Manx.
Edward Craven, a Year 6 pupil at St John’s Primary School, received the Outstanding Achievement in Manx Language (Key Stage 1-2) award in recognition of his enthusiasm for Manx and commitment to continuing his studies.
Special awards for progress in learning Manx were presented to Erin Moore and Alex Lewin, recognising their dedication to developing their Manx language skills.
Cara Rowles, was recognised for her Outstanding Achievement in Manx Music and Dance. A talented musician and performer, Cara sings, composes and performs in Manx.
Coral Heginbotham, of Castle Rushen High School, received the Outstanding Achievement in Arts and Crafts award for her textiles work inspired by the Isle of Man’s landscape and natural beauty.
Amelia Mealin, of Ramsey Grammar School, was recognised for her Outstanding Contribution to Manx Culture through her support of younger dancers with Ny Fennee.
Ny Claaseyryn Twoaie received the award for Outstanding Contribution to Manx Culture by a Group of Young People Under 25 for their work promoting Manx culture on and off the Island.
The Manx Community Award was presented to Peel Youth Centre volunteers Lilly Barret, Matilda Watson, Amy Williams and Katie Ridout in recognition of their positive contribution to their club and local community.
Winners were announced by Daphne Caine MHK, Minister for Education, Sport and Culture, and presented with a specially minted silver medal from David Holmes, Immediate Past President of NAMA.
The celebration closed with a few words from Laurence Skelly MLC, Past President of NAMA, who congratulated the students on their achievements and emphasised the importance of recognising those making a positive contribution to Manx life.
Outstanding Achievement in Manx Language (Key Stage 3-5) – Meredith Wade
Outstanding Achievement in Manx Language (Key Stage 1-2) – Edward Craven
Award for Most Progress in Manx Language – Erin Moore and Alex Lewin
Outstanding Achievement in Manx Music and Dance – Cara Rowles
Outstanding Achievement in Arts and Crafts – Coral Heginbotham
Outstanding Contribution to Manx Culture by a Student Under 18 – Amelia Mealin
Outstanding Contribution to Manx Culture by a Group of Young People Under 25 – Ny Claaseyryn Twoaie
Manx Community Award – Lilly Barret, Matilda Watson, Amy Williams and Katie Ridout, Peel Youth Centre