Loughborough College Student Named Lord-Lieutenant’s Young Person of the Year 2026

Inspiring Loughborough College student Rhianna Reid is celebrating an outstanding achievement, having been named the Lord-Lieutenant’s Young Person of the Year 2026 at the prestigious Lord-Lieutenant’s Awards for Young People.

Sports and Coaching Development student Rhianna, 18, also received the Young Volunteer Award at the ceremony in recognition of her dedication to supporting others in her community while balancing her commitments including studies at the College, employment, learning to drive, and significant caring responsibilities at home.

The awards ceremony took place at County Hall, Glenfield in April and was hosted by Lord-Lieutenant Mike Kapur, who praised Rhianna and her fellow finalists for their “bravery, creativity, strength of spirit and selflessness.” 

As a young carer for both her father and sister, Rhianna has worked closely with youth workers at Leicestershire County Council and has made a meaningful contribution to services supporting young carers across the county. 

She dedicates her free time to designing and developing training for people who may encounter young carers and is directly involved with raising awareness of the challenges they face to ensure they get the support they need.

Her commitment to helping others, alongside her academic studies and personal commitments, impressed the judging panel and led to her being named the overall winner for 2026. 

Speaking after receiving the award, Rhianna said: “I was completely shocked, I couldn’t quite believe that I was hearing my name. 

“Then when my name was read out as the overall Young Person of the Year my heart was beating so fast, I just couldn't believe it, I was so shocked!”

Keira Hand, Safeguarding and Learner Welfare Manager from Loughborough College, said: “We are incredibly proud of Rhianna and everything she has achieved. Her compassion, resilience and commitment to supporting others embody the very best of our College community. 

“This award is thoroughly deserved and recognises the positive difference she makes to the lives of people around her every day.”

The Lord-Lieutenant’s Awards for Young People celebrate exceptional young people across Leicester and Leicestershire who have demonstrated courage, leadership, creativity, and commitment to their communities.