Gosport Youth Citizen of the Year Recognised for Outstanding Service to the Volunteer Cadet Corps

The Volunteer Cadet Corps is delighted to congratulate Zoë Malam on being named Gosport Youth Citizen of the Year 2026, recognising her exceptional commitment to volunteering, leadership and youth development.

Zoë joined the Royal Marines Volunteer Cadet Corps Band Gosport in 2019 and quickly embraced the opportunities offered by the Corps. Throughout her time as a cadet, she developed valuable leadership skills while participating in concerts, ceremonial parades and training activities. Despite many opportunities being disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, she was selected as a First Sea Lord Cadet, recognising her dedication and potential.

Progressing to the rank of Cadet Colour Sergeant, Zoë demonstrated outstanding commitment before transitioning into adult service at the age of 18. Since then, she has supported numerous training camps and activities, serving as a Sailing Instructor, Welfare Officer and member of senior leadership teams delivering safe, rewarding and memorable experiences for cadets.

One of the highlights of her service was supporting the VCC’s 125th Anniversary celebrations at the Tower of London, where she served as Third-in-Command on parade while helping coordinate training and ceremonial activities throughout the week.

Most recently, Zoë has served as Second-in-Command of Royal Marines VCC Gosport Division, helping to strengthen recruitment, encourage greater participation from female cadets and adult volunteers, and further develop the delivery of training within the unit. Her passion for practical training and youth development has made a lasting impact on countless young people.

Reflecting on her journey, Zoë credits the VCC with helping shape the person she is today through the confidence, skills and lifelong friendships she has gained. In turn, she has dedicated herself to ensuring future generations of cadets benefit from the same opportunities.

As Zoë prepares to take a well-earned break from the organisation, this award serves as fitting recognition of her years of dedicated service to the VCC and the wider Gosport community.

Everyone at the Volunteer Cadet Corps congratulates Zoë on this well-deserved achievement and thanks her for her outstanding contribution to the Corps and the young people it supports.