A TEENAGER from Barry who beat the bullies to gain her qualifications was amongst the top learners celebrated at leading youth support charity's awards in Cardiff.

At the Rathbone’s Welsh Achievers awards Chelsea Collins, 17, was presented with the Traineeship Level One Learner of the Year award by Leader of Plaid Cymru and South Wales Central Assembly Member Leanne Wood, at the Council Chamber at Cardiff University, on Wednesday, July 9.

“Chelsea overcame adversity to gain her qualifications and her efforts were justly recognised at the Rathbone Welsh Achievers awards,” said Ms Wood.

“Her story, like many on the night, was inspirational and I salute the courage that so many youngsters in Wales are showing to make their mark in the world.

“The stories we heard at the awards were uplifting and provide a testament as to what can be achieved with hard work and determination. It was a privilege to meet these talented young people to recognise them and present them with their awards.”

Chelsea went to Rathbone extremely low on confidence after being bullied at school, labelled by her school as a liability and not being allowed to start sixth-form.

With the charity’s support she has overcome her issues and gained a range of qualifications to improve her maths and communications skills.

“Rathbone is the best education I’ve ever had,” said Chelsea.

“I’ve now got the confidence to apply for further education and would like to apply for college and then university with support from Rathbone.”

The awards event was held to celebrate successes from Rathbone’s 11 centres across 10 unitary authorities in Wales.

Rathbone is a charitable work based learning provider which works with over two thousand young people aged 16-24 in Wales every year.