Music mentor Peter Findlay was recognised as Albany’s youth citizen of the year at the Binalup-Middleton Beach Festival on Monday for his dedication to youth development.
The award is presented to anyone aged from 16 to 30 who has made outstanding contributions to the community.
Starting volunteer work at the tender age of nine, when he began playing piano each week for children at his church, Mr Findlay has since had multiple roles within the music sector and has helped young dancers at the Albany Ballroom Dance Studio.
He has mentored hundreds of young people in Albany through his roles with About FACE Youth Choir and About FACE Kids Camp, alongside his leadership with the Albany Wind Ensemble and involvement in Scripture Union Youth Camps.
The young leader said he was surprised that he received the award and hoped to be able to continue the influential work.
“Personally, it’s absolutely overwhelming (winning the award),” he said.
“I run a lot of youth camps as well and developing music in the next generation, in the community trying to encourage that.”
Mr Findlay said the award would only motivate him to keep working and volunteering in the community.
“There’s no reason to stop (volunteering).
“It’s such a valuable thing to keep doing,” he said.
“This just gives me encouragement to keep going and keep working on it.”
Other youth award nominees were Joshua Boocock, Joey Dijkstra, Charlie Hill and Hazel Young.
