A GROUP of inspirational girls from Blackburn Youth Zone were presented with an award by HRH the Duke of Sussex.

The Strong Sisters were recognised nationally as being the leaders of tomorrow, as they were presented with the award for Health and Wellbeing at the first OnSide charity awards, at the Royal Albert Hall in London on Sunday.

The group of seven girls, aged 13 to 25, come from a wide range of diverse backgrounds across Blackburn with Darwen.

Over the past year, they have dedicated their time to researching the history of successful and inspiring women from Blackburn with Darwen, with the aim of inspiring others.

Zunairah Iqbal, a Strong Sister from Blackburn, said: “Being part of the Strong Sisters has given me such an insight into how many inspirational women have come from Blackburn with Darwen.

“We are passionate about passing on that message to younger generations and letting them know they can achieve any dream they have.

“Being presented the award by Prince Harry was such an honour and an experience we will keep with us forever.”

The Duke of Sussex took to the stage to urge thousands of youngsters to continue to try and take steps to unlock their potential and realise the difference they can make.

Strong Sisters are planning an exhibition at Blackburn Museum to celebrate International Women’s Day.

The next stage of the project will see them become leaders at Blackburn Youth Zone where they will pass on the knowledge they have found to younger girls.

Hannah Allen, CEO Blackburn Youth Zone, said: “It is vital that through projects like the Strong Sisters we provide young people with key leadership tools so they can then go out into the world with all the skills they need to believe they can achieve anything they want.

“We are so proud of our Strong Sisters, they are such an inspiration for all young women.

“The strong sisters are creating leadership legacy for young women across BwD and the country”.

Strong Sisters is just one of the many projects currently running at Blackburn Youth Zone.

Blackburn with Darwen MP Kate Hollern said: “I am extremely proud of the impact the Strong Sisters have had on not only the Blackburn with Darwen community but also nationally.

“They are changing perceptions of women and showing the world how powerful women can be.

“I have followed and supported the girls story since the beginning and I look forward to continuing to see the amazing things they will all go on to achieve.”

For more information on how to become a Blackburn Youth Zone young leader or any other projects please email enquiries@blackburnyz.org