Pembrokeshire charity Megan's Starr - established to support young people and raise awareness of bullying and mental health issues, has been shortlisted for a prestigious award this week.

Charities, community groups, not-for-profits and volunteers will be honoured on Thursday, October 16, as part of this year's Welsh Charity Awards at the Principality Stadium, Cardiff.

Five outstanding organisations from across Wales have been shortlisted for ‘Organisation of the Year’ - the most prestigious category at the awards: Megan's Starr from Milford Haven, ScoutsCymru, Domestic Abuse Safety Unit (DASU) North Wales, Age Connects Cardiff and the Vale, and Kidney Wales.

The Welsh Charity Awards are an opportunity to shout about the voluntary sector in Wales, and give stand-out organisations and individuals some well-earned recognition.

It is the only dedicated awards ceremony to celebrate the entire voluntary sector in Wales, championing the positive difference made by organisations across the country.

Megan's Starr Foundation has been shortlisted for transforming family grief into exemplary organisational leadership. Founded by 2023 Volunteer of the Year winner, Nicola Harteveld, after 14-year-old Megan died by suicide, this grassroots Pembrokeshire charity has demonstrated exceptional governance through trustee expertise.

The charity has provided 2,000+ counselling hours, seven jobs for young people in the local area, 25,000+ volunteer hours, and 5,000+ meals.

Twice nominated this year, including for Most Influential Small Organisation, founder Nicola Harteveld said: “These nominations are more than recognition: they’re a beacon of hope. Megan’s Starr Foundation was built from heartbreak, but it has become a lifeline for so many young people who feel forgotten. Against all odds, we’ve created a model of resilience, love and opportunity — fuelled by passion, not profit.

“To be seen in this way tells every young person we support that they matter, and that change is possible, even from the darkest places. It’s a moment of pride, not just for us, but for every voice we’ve helped to find strength.”

Speaking ahead of this year's ceremony at Principality Stadium, WCVA's Chief Executive Lindsay Cordery-Bruce said: “The Welsh Charity Awards isn't just a celebration, it's an enormous thank you to the people and organisations who do great things in our communities. These are the people holding our nation together, with kindness, volunteering, inclusion and unwavering helpfulness.

“Times are tough at the moment, especially for charities and community groups. Our finalists are just a few of the thousands of people bringing hope among the chaos. They rise to challenges, make things work even when it feels impossible and they do it with no thought of reward. Let's shine a light on what this means and give a proper da iawn!”

The Welsh Charity Awards celebrate just some of the amazing stories of the difference made by charities and volunteers across Wales.

For the full list of finalists, please visit the Welsh Charity Awards website