YOUNGSTERS who have overcome huge personal challenges to change their lives with new qualifications and employability skills were recognised at an awards ceremony.

Around 120 people gathered at Trailfinders Sports Club in Ealing for the London Celebration of Success event held by Skills Training UK, an independent provider.

Those aged 16-24 who undertook traineeships and vocational BTEC courses at the provider's centres in Ealing and Wembley were honoured in front of proud families, friends and tutors.

Noon Abubakr, originally from Sudan, won the Highest Achievement Award. The 16-year-old moved to Ealing in January with her two brothers and mother but was turned away by schools and colleges due to the timing of the academic year.

READ MORE: Ealing's social housing partner wins award

READ MORE: TfL apologises over offensive advert

She was referred to Skills Training UK by Ealing Council and, in just three months, achieved qualifications in English, Maths, Customer Service, and Personal Development and Employability.

She enjoyed a work placement at an O2 store and has now landed a job as a supervisor at educational theme park KidZania in London.

She said: “I was scared when we moved – a new country, a new way of life – and it was frustrating sitting around all day when I just wanted to get on with my education and life, so I was so happy and excited to start with Skills Training UK.

“The tutors have been great and really built up my confidence and skills, and helped me when I had problems.”

Other winners included Noon’s brother Sameer Abubakr (Most Improved Learner Award), Sami Mohamed and Chakaniya Chandran (Outstanding Study Programme Learner Awards).