A guitarist and aspiring music producer with a passion for charity work and a diligent approach to his studies has been named the Island's top teenager of 2009.

Matthew Witkowski was found by the judges of this year's Outstanding Teen Awards to be "an ideal young role model in our society" for his academic, sporting and music achievements, as well as his commitment to community service.

The 17-year-old Saltus Grammar School student was presented with his trophy on Saturday night at a ceremony at the Fairmont Hamilton Princess at which 15 other youngsters also received prizes.

Matthew, who sings and plays guitar in rock and reggae band Secret Po-Po, told The Royal Gazette: "I was really surprised when they started reading out the bio and I heard the various things, thinking: that sounds like me, wow!

"It kind of caught me off guard to win the overall award. A lot of good kids, good friends of mine, were in contention to win. I really appreciate the fact that it was awarded to me."

The Smith's teenager is hoping to study music production at NYU after he graduates from Saltus this year — and his $2,500 prize will go towards his further education.

The judges' citation on Matthew, who was also chosen as the male winner in the academic achievement category, read: "This young person is credited with having a fantastic balance between academics, philanthropic assistance, sport and music. Our winner's exceptionally well-motivated and diligent approach to study has been rewarded.

"This talented all-rounder has a great deal to offer society in the future. Our winner is a personable young man who relates well to others and is popular among both faculty and peers."Matthew's excellent school grades went in his favour, as did his volunteering for Keep Bermuda Beautiful and the Salvation Army, his church activities and his participation in the school jazz band, concert band, orchestra and basketball team.The Outstanding Teen Awards, run by Teen Services and sponsored by the Bermuda Silver Jubilee Trust and other organisations, have highlighted the achievements of hundreds of the Island's young people since they were launched in 1982.This year, 91 students were nominated across the following categories: spiritual leadership, sports, most progress, leadership, community service, incentive, academic achievement and visual and performing arts. The male and female winners in each of the categories received $750 toward their future studies.Michelle Wade, executive director of Teen Services, said of Saturday night's event:"It was beautiful. We had standing room only and we had to put more chairs out. Families were very excited and cheering their loved ones on."We were glad to have it back at the hotel. We used to do City Hall but the hotel is a nice flavour."She said the accomplishments of young people were all too often forgotten and the awards provided an opportunity to celebrate and highlight the excellence of nominees."They are usually quite humble people so they just do what they have to do,"she said. "We like to bring them forth to the community."The other winners on Saturday were: Lillaurie Nzabalinda, Kaya Simmons, Alexis Bean, Sinclair Smith, Elisse Johnston, Aden Peets, Jalicia Crockwell, Jordan Lambe, Mica Murray, Michael Mello, Renee Tucker, Jessica Zuiker, Kamela Wade, Kevin Simmons and Kelly Gilmour.