Sixteen-year-old Tori Segourney Smith gave up hours of her free time to volunteer in the community because she could.

She's now the youngest ever recipient of a CableVision Community Service Award, and says it's all been worthwhile.

"I don't regret any of it," she said. "I don't mind missing any of the parties because now it's all paid off. I've got this award and I am being recognised for my hard work.

"I am actually really proud. I feel honoured."

Miss Smith has devoted as much as 40 hours each month to various causes on the Island including the Hamilton Community Centre, where she is chair of the Youth Representative Committee.

The Berkeley Institute student began volunteering when she was 13 years old and living with her mother in St. Lucia. There was an orphanage in the neighbourhood and, though she had no idea what community service was, her mum encouraged her to help.

Since then the aspiring underwriter has tutored kids in math and science and put on plays and dance productions to raise money for charity. She also organised a non-uniform day at her school and raised $200 for the student library.

She said: "I really enjoy helping people and working with children, which is why I decided to carry on volunteering myself. Sometimes, I only have one evening a week free because I support so many causes but I don't mind because I really enjoy what I am doing."

Acting Education Minister Kim Wilson, was present at an awards ceremony in honour of the young recipient yesterday, and said: "Tori is an excellent representative for young people and sets a great example.

"It is admirable that she wants others to be successful in their studies, while maintaining her own busy study schedule."

Miss Smith has enjoyed her time as a volunteer and believes that if other young people gave it a try they would too. She said: "It's not how people would expect it. Community service isn't boring, it is very fun. It's taught me a lot, showed me that I do have a love for kids, showed me how to deal with them and people."

In addition to presenting Miss Smith with an award, CableVision donated $1,000 to the Hamilton Youth Centre in her honour.