Tinchy Stryder is asking members of the public to nominate young people who are doing great things in their community for a vinspired National Award. We caught up him to find out more…

Tell us about your involvement in the vinspired National Awards 2012.

I got involved a couple of years ago when I performed at the awards. Since then, I’ve always been in touch with the organisers. When something like this comes along and it sounds and feels right to me, something positive, then getting involved with it is the least I can do. 

Why do you think it’s important for young people to get involved in volunteering?

I think it’s important because it shows togetherness – that there are people out there working together for something positive. I believe that helping the youth of this country is so important. I understand what it feels like to want to do something positive, but not have the options available. But if you want to get involved in volunteering, vinspired.com is a great way to get started. 

What inspired you growing up?

I always say the friends and family around me. I always keep close people around me; people who are going to help you decide what’s right and what’s wrong, but at the same time, people who understand it’s your choice, it’s your life. 

What were you like at school?

I fitted in at school. Funnily enough, my favourite subject was maths! Everyone always goes to me: “Who likes maths?” But I really liked it.

You started in the music industry working on pirate radio stations when you were just 14. Was it hard starting out at such a young age?

It wasn’t really hard, because it was a hobby. I felt like, this was what I enjoyed doing, so I just tried to enjoy doing it. It was very natural, I didn’t feel like I was forced into doing anything. I did it at my own pace.

What was your first big break?

I guess my big break was moving from the underground to the mainstream. I had a track called Stryderman when I was still independent. Then that got on a few radio playlists that independent artists wouldn’t usually get on. That’s really what got a lot of labels interested. Then I got signed. From then on it’s been like being on a roller coaster! 

Tinchy Stryder is encouraging nominations for the vinspired National Awards to recognise young volunteers for the inspirational work they do. For more information or to nominate someone, visit www.vinspired.com/nationalawards. Nominations close 30 November.