THE multi-million-pound youth centre being built in Eastwood may not have gone ahead if it wasn't for Gareth Painter.
Gareth, 19, known as Gaz, campaigned about the need for the youth centre, which is being built at Derby Road, and fought local opposition to win support for it.
Now, he has been nominated for a Notts Outstanding Achievement Award 4Uth, a new awards scheme set up by the Post and Notts County Council to honour the achievements of young people.
"There was nothing about for the young people in Eastwood, there were no activities or anything for us to get involved in," said Gaz.
"A lot of people were protesting against it, saying that it was a waste of money and it would cause all sorts of trouble.
"But I told them that the reason there was such a high crime rate in Eastwood was because there is nothing for us, and nothing for young people to get involved with."
When plans for the youth centre were approved, Gaz made sure that it would be suitable for young people by setting up an advisory committee, in which he has played a key role.
"I've gone around to other youth centres to see what they have and what young people want.
"I've also been involved with things like the colour scheme.
"We are going to have a cafe and seating area, a recording studio and a lounge with games consoles and a big TV. It's a really big achievement."
Just two years ago, Gaz was homeless, but now has his own flat and works in a bakery.
He lived in a hostel for about five months, and while he admits it wasn't the greatest experience, he believes it has helped him turn his life around.
"It made me grow up and realise what life is about," said Gaz, who lives in Eastwood and is a mechanic by trade.
"I went from being at rock bottom to how I am now, and I want to use my experiences to help other people who are going through the same thing."
Gaz is a member of the Notts Young Homeless Forum, which meets to discuss the issues that young homeless people face.
He was involved in the creation of a survival guide for young homeless people that will be rolled out across the UK. "It has advice on what to do and what not to do, and numbers people can contact for advice," said Gaz, who has also trained as a youth worker.
"I've been involved with the youth service since I was 12 years old, and my youth worker has helped me throughout my life.
"Becoming a volunteer youth worker is my way of giving something back and helping other young people."
Gaz was nominated by his youth worker Andy Allsopp who said: "Gaz has been instrumental in getting the youth centre off the ground, and his passion for its creation knows no bounds.
"He spoke at public meetings where he was challenged by local residents who had concerns and has helped to rally support and gain input from other young people.
"He has had his difficulties since I've known him, but he is a level-headed young man who does not let things get him down no matter what life throws at him.
"I believe Gaz is very worthy nomination as he is a fantastic role model to other young people and dedicates much of his spare time for the benefit of others."
The Notts 4Uth Awards are looking for inspirational young people from across the county, who have achieved outstanding things within their own personal boundaries.
The overall winner will be chosen by a panel which includes County Council leader Kay Cutts and Nottingham Post editor Malcolm Pheby, and will win �250 of vouchers of their choice.
Councillor Lynn Sykes, Deputy Cabinet Member for Children and Young People's Services, said: "Young people often get a raw deal in the press and with older generations who perceive them to be troublemakers and up to no good, which is based on a small minority.
"There are many teenagers who do fantastic work or have achieved a great deal and these awards will celebrate this."
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