A WOMAN who has turned her life around with the help of a youth charity has been nominated for a prestigious royal award.

Katie Drouet from Glemsford is up for the RBS Enterprise Award at The Prince’s Trust Celebrate Success Awards which will be held later this month.

The 25-year-old, who set up a photographic business with support from The Prince’s Trust, said the organisation had given her the strength and confidence to “dictate” her own future.

Ms Drouet, who trained in media, turned to the charity’s Enterprise programme after a string of jobs collapsed as the recession hit.

She said the scheme, which aims to help young people wishing to start their own business or achieve alternative outcomes in education, provided her with the support and financial backing she needed.

“It is just so great having that extra support and the help with the business loans. It has just been a huge help. I do not think I could have done it witout them.”

Ms Drouet, who said she is still in touch with her long-term business mentor, said: “I believe that my confidence will continue to grow.

“Thanks to The Prince’s Trust, owning my business means I can dictate my future, not someone else.”

Ms Drouet advised others, who may be in the same position as she was, to “stay determined” and added that she hopes to be able to run workshops herself to help other young photographers.

Thom Kenrick, Head of Inspiring Enterprise, RBS Group, said: “We are delighted to sponsor this prestigious award which recognises young people who have overcome barriers and achieved success in creating a sustainable business or social enterprise.”

The Prince’s Trust Celebrate Success Awards honours the achievements of disadvantaged young people who have succeeded against the odds. The awards ceremony will take place at West Road Concert Hall, Cambridge on Monday 5 November 2012.

Katie Drouet Photography, which specialises in portraits and weddings, has now been running for about two years,

You can contact Ms Drouet on Facebook.