The Regional Secretary for Social Solidarity spoke at the delivery ceremony of "I Believe in My Future" awards, held in Angra do Heroísmo, stressing the importance of educational stability for all children and young people. 

"Positive educational experiences increase well-being levels of these children and young people, contribute to the success of their transition to adulthood and improve the chances that they will achieve personal fulfilment and provide a positive contribution to society," said Andreia Cardoso at the ceremony. The event brought together institutions and benefactors.

Jointly organised by the Regional Directorates for Social Solidarity and Education and the Azores Social Security Institute, the award aims to motivate children and young people living in children's and youth homes and temporary shelters for school activities as well as to strengthen their commitment to them. It also intends to recognise the efforts carried out by institutions to provide children and young people with the conditions that will contribute to their academic success.

Andreia Cardoso recalled "that institutionalised children and young people face significant obstacles in accessing positive educational experiences and, subsequently, in achieving academic success." Therefore, she congratulated youngsters for their "hard work and determination."

The institutions sheltering the award-winning youngsters are the following: Fajã de Baixo Social and Parish Centre (São Miguel), Maria Clara Social Work Centre – Azores (Pico), Nossa Senhora do Livramento Brotherhood, Santo Agostinho Social Centre and "Santa Casa da Misericórdia" of Praia da Vitória (Terceira).

Included in the "Sheltering, Developing and Integrating" programme, the second edition of these awards was supported by several entities, which contributed with the laptops and money prizes delivered to the distinguished youngsters.