Janan ‘truly an inspiration’

Pride in Oldham nominee Janan Billings

GIVING young people new opportunities and skills has earned Janan Billings a Pride in Oldham nomination.

The 27-year-old works as a project co-ordinator for the anti-social behaviour team at Guiness Northern Counties in Oldham.

His job entails working with young people, setting up after-school clubs and facilities.

He also links with local agencies to provide workshops on a range of topics such as drug abuse and healthy eating.

However, it is his work above and beyond the call of duty to support and mentor local children that prompted human resources adviser Janet Tootill to nominate him.

She said: “His dedication is truly an inspiration to his colleagues and the young people he works with, and he really makes a difference to their day-to-day lives.”

Janan, who lives in Rochdale but is originally from Australia, has worked in his role for more than four years.

He said: “Being nominated makes you feel really proud and very privileged.

“I do the job because I like to be interactive with people.

“It makes you feel happy to see youngsters are getting something out of it, they get a different opportunity in life.

“If I can change the life of one youngster, I’ve done my job.”