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Naomi Cumming was given a special video message from The Rt Rev Tutu for her community work with the Christ Church Armley Youth Project.

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The 15-year-old, who attends Swallow Hill Community College, was chosen as one of six award winners by the Archbishop of York's Youth Trust for her dedication as a youth leader.

In the special video message The Rt Rev Tutu called her a "super-duper person" and said that she was "an inspiration to me and many, many others who think that the problems we face are beyond our capacity to resolve."

Naomi has attended activities run by the project in Armley since the age of five and enjoyed her time so much that she wanted to give something back by helping out.

"We used to live up the road from the church and we played on the streets but when we were told about the project we decided to give it a go," she said.

"I enjoyed it so much that I haven't missed a week of it and it has helped me to become more confident.

"My friends are really proud of me and they can remember when I used to be quiet but now I can express myself more."

Naomi hopes to have a career in child care or social work when she has finished her GCSEs.

She has already become a youth leader in her own right after completing a peer mentoring course.

She regularly helps out with the youth group for seven to 11-year-olds as well as holding drop-in sessions.

The project helps to provide a safe place for local children and offers an alternative to under-age drinking and problems such as vandalism.

Naomi added: "The community has a lot of problems such as people smashing windows and vandalising things but when people come here they are off the streets.

"By taking part it makes me feel like I am involved and part of the community. I love helping people out.

"When I got the message from Archbishop Desmond Tutu I felt so special and happy. I was shocked because I didn't think that I would get something off someone so big."

The teenager will be presented with a special award on Saturday to mark the launch of the Archbishop of York Youth Trust by The Rt Rev Tutu and the Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu.

The Rt Rev Tutu will also be presented with a Human Rights Award in recognition of his contribution in transforming South African society and his wider work for truth and reconciliation.