A YOUNG Glasgow lad doing his own bit to tackle drug and alcohol misuse in the city has been honoured by the Prime Minister.
Despite being just 20, Ethan Mcinally from Govan has developed an innovative project, 'Getting the Message Across', to educate our city's youngsters on the dangers of drug and alcohol misuse.
He has also highlighted the importance of positive mental health.
As part of his work, Ethan, an ambassador for #iwill - a charity which supports youth social action - has created a series of interactive workshops and a short film - which has been used to educate 6000 people across the city.
And has hard work at such a young age has not gone unnoticed - earning him one of Boris Johnson's Points of Light awards.
The daily awards recognise "outstanding volunteers" and "people who are making a change in their community".
In a personal letter to Ethan, the Prime Minister said: “I know you do this with no thought of praise or reward, but allow me to offer my own recognition of how you are educating thousands of young people across Glasgow about the dangers of drug and alcohol misuse through your innovative, interactive workshops.”
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As a voluntary football coach, Ethan has also raised awareness by holding a tournament with over 200 young participants - with the event being used to engage local groups on the consequences of substance abuse.
Upon hearing news of his award, Ethan said: "I'm extremely honoured to be receiving the Points of Light award from the Prime Minister.
"I'm proud that by getting the message across regarding the dangers of drug and alcohol misuse I can contribute to helping my peers have a safer future by empowering them to make better informed decisions about using these substances.
"I'm convinced that fellow young people can make a difference in our futures and I hope I can inspire some of them to begin making their voices be heard."
Dr Rania Marandos, CEO of 'Step Up To Serve', which coordinates the #iwill campaign, told how young people must lead the way in social change.
She said: "We're very pleased to see the Prime Minister recognising Ethan’s many achievements as a peer educator and coach.
"Social disadvantage is one of a number of pressing challenges the UK faces.
"In order to tackle such issues, young people must be empowered to lead real change with their communities – as Ethan has done."
More information about Get the Message Across can be found here.
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