Two national awards were last night announced at the Young Enterprise Scheme Otago awards event, the first time both awards had gone to the region in one year.
Otago Girls' High School teacher Ann Babbage will receive the Fletcher Award for outstanding service to young enterprise at the national awards in December.
At the same event, Columba College pupil Sian English will receive the New Zealand Institute of Accountants young managing director of the year award.
Lion Foundation YES regional co-ordinator Paul Allen said in an interview the Fletcher Award had been presented to another Otago teacher in the past, but he was sure Sian's success in the young managing director award was the first time it had come to Otago.
''There are only two national awards presented each year and for both of them to come to this region is a fantastic result.
''Ann has been involved with YES as far back as anyone can remember. She has provided tireless support and enthusiasm for the pupils.''
The young managing director of the year award came from recommendations from team members and observations made from outside the region.
The Otago Chamber of Commerce had been involved in the scheme since its inception 32 years ago, Mr Allen said.
Dunedin accountant Steve Brocklebank was the first convener of the Otago scheme, followed by chamber chief executive John Christie, chamber administration manager Fiona Gray and Mr Allen.
This year, Columba College's Otepoti Products did an ''excellent job'' selling its two organic garden products - a liquid plant tonic and an organic fertiliser, Mr Allen said. The team will represent Otago at the national awards.
Other awards announced last night were. -
Sustainable business award: Golden Growers, St Hilda's Collegiate School.
Best marketing plan: Fit-Hit, St Hilda's Collegiate School.
Best use of online media: Otepoti Products.
Best annual review: Otepoti Products.
Best financial performance: Fit-Hit.
