On March 27, 2025, the Grampian Regional Equality Council (GREC) and Aberdeen for a Fairer World hosted an event at the Aberdeen Art Gallery to mark the relaunch of the Anne Frank Awards. The ceremony honoured young people whose efforts have made a significant impact in areas such as Holocaust education, combating discrimination and inequality, promoting peace, addressing refugee and migration issues, and advocating for children’s rights.
During the event, four recipients were presented with the Anne Frank Awards: Yahya’s Hub, Aberdeen Youth Movement (AYM), Ashley Road School, and Northfield Academy. Each was recognised for their dedication to creating positive change within their communities, embodying the values of equality, and social justice.
Maria Jose Pavez, GREC’s Co-General manager said: “We’re thrilled to relaunch the Anne Frank Awards, honouring Yahya’s Hub, Aberdeen Youth Movement (AYM), Ashley Road School, and Northfield Academy for their work in Equality and Human Rights in the North East. We look forward to seeing these four groups and schools collaborate to raise awareness, inspire change, and continue promoting the values of tolerance, inclusivity, and social justice within their communities and beyond.”
David Innes, Chair, Action for a Fairer World:
“We were aware of so much great work with respect to social justice, rights, dignity, diversity and tackling discrimination that was happening in schools and community-based youth groups. GREC and AFW wanted to recognise this work and felt the appropriate way of doing so was by reintroducing the award named in memory of the life and legacy of Anne Frank. AYM and YAHYA’s Hub, Ashley Road School, and Northfield Academy are four great examples of groups doing all they can to respect and uphold the dignity and rights of children and young people in our area”
Shiva Asrafte, Co-founder of YAHYA’s Hub said: “We’re honoured to be recognised by the relaunched Anne Frank Awards. Yahya’s Hub is dedicated to empowering unaccompanied young asylum seekers by fostering community integration and connections with local young adults. Through workshops and events, we provide a safe space to rebuild confidence, develop skills, and form meaningful relationships. By bringing together local youths and asylum seekers, we promote cultural understanding and strengthen community ties. This recognition reflects the resilience of the young new Scots we support and the power of community in advancing equality and human rights.”