Everyone knows an unsung hero – someone who is worthy of recognition but doesn’t go looking for it.
The Pride in Medway awards were set up to honour these heroes and as a showcase for achievements which deserve a wider audience.
Since the awards were launched, we have received hundreds of nominations.
They range from people who have raised a fortune for charity to others who have been brave in an emergency.
Some are devoted carers, others give up their free time to help their local community.
All have one thing in common – they are a shining example of everything that is good about Medway.
The winner of the eighth Pride in Medway awards was 18-year-old Jo Balk (pictured), from Lordswood. At the age of 11, she joined Medway Youth Parliament and served on it for seven years, including one year as chairman. Her citation praised the mature way she has represented the views of young people and campaigned on youth issues.
Jo has chosen to serve the community in her future career as well. She joined Kent Police’s communications department when she left school and intends to become a police officer.
We know there are lots ofpeople out there who deserve to be nominated. You can put their names forward by filling in the form which will be published every week in the Medway Messenger.

There are eight categories listed on the form – please choose the one best suited to your nominee.

The awards are being backed by Medway Council, mhs homes, the Medway Messenger and the University of Kent.