Imogen Sanders' journey has been years in the making, culminating in receiving a Highly Commended Award from the Office of the Lord Lieutenant.

Beginning as a young person attending a Love4Life group herself, Imy naturally gravitated toward supporting others. What started as participation soon became purpose. She progressed from attendee to Youth Board member, onto volunteer youth worker, ultimately leading the Youth Board with integrity, compassion, and strength. Her growth reflects not only long-term commitment, but a deep-rooted desire to ensure young people feel heard, valued, and empowered.

Imy’s resilience is particularly remarkable. She has navigated personal challenges and moments of self-doubt yet consistently took lead, even when she struggled to see in herself what others so clearly could. That perseverance demonstrates extraordinary strength of character and serves as an inspiration to all. She models courage in action, showing young people that confidence is not the absence of doubt, but the decision to move forward despite it.

Her measurable contributions are equally impressive. Imy has volunteered at 18 Love4Life group sessions, dedicating an hour each week to supporting young people. She supported community events, committing 22 hours. She participated in 26 Youth Board sessions, contributing two hours monthly to leadership and development. Even taking part in 7 staff interviews, ensuring the authentic voice of young people remained central in recruitment decisions.

During these interviews, Imy’s insight was invaluable. She championed the importance of youth voice, carefully considering each candidate’s ability to connect with and empower young people. Every candidate she interviewed went on to secure a role within the charity and has since thrived - a testament to her discernment and leadership.

Beyond statistics, Imy’s true impact lies in the culture she has helped shape. She has inspired others to step into leadership after witnessing her ability to guide discussions with empathy and ensure every voice is heard. One Youth Board member shared, “You could never be forgotten - you really are an amazing person.” A former youth support worker described her as “the definition of courageous, selfless leadership.”

Imy embodies resilience, compassion, dedication, and influence. She does not lead for recognition, but to uplift others. She is not only deserving of this award - she represents exactly what it stands for.

Everyone at Love4Life is hugely proud of Imy and want to thank her for everything she has done and still does to support the vital work we do.