The awards are presented to young people aged 16-21 who have left the care system or are from a juvenile justice system background.
The young people received a variety of awards including certificates for maths and English skills, Duke of Edinburgh awards, and awards for training and personal development courses.
Speaking at Youth Action in Belfast, the Minster said: "The amount of achievement in this room today is to be applauded. These young people have put aside their barriers and have been determined to achieve.
"And what a wide range of achievement there is: from literacy and numeracy skills to car valeting and mechanics.
"As Junior Ministers with responsibility for children and young people we want the lives of all children and young people to be improved.
"Today’s event is further evidence of how much young people here achieve.
"I know that life hasn’t always been easy for most of these young people here today. They have all had to face challenges at an early age.
"The message here today is clear that the best way to succeed is to work hard and achieve goals. These awards today demonstrate the determination and commitment of these young people to aim for a better future for themselves. This is commendable.
"We congratulate all of the young people who took part in the various schemes and hope that their new founds skills will set them up for a brighter future."
Notes to Editors:
- Junior Ministers have responsibility for the co-ordination of policy for children and young people.
- Include Youth works to promote best practice with young people in need or at risk.
- All media enquiries to OFMDFM Press Office on 028 9052 1375. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
