Firefly International is 20 years old this year. To celebrate we are creating a new award in honour of Firefly's founder Ellie Maxwell.

Ellie was just 21 and a student at Edinburgh University when she founded Firefly International, a Scottish charity with a mission to foster multi-ethnic youth projects in Bosnia and elsewhere. To fund Firefly in the beginning, Ellie enlisted fellow Edinburgh University students to help raise money.

Ellie died in 2009, of complications from cancer. Ellies life was cut short, but her work continues. Through her initiative, Firefly continues to thrive and grow.

Firefly International is a volunteer based charity which supports locally led partners who work with children and young people in current and post conflict regions. Working in Bosnia, Turkey and Syria we lead projects, that provide safe spaces, opportunities and activities that improve the life chances of children living in very difficult and dangerous situations.

Firefly will mark the 20 year anniversary with an event at The Old College, Edinburgh University. The evening will feature a spectacular light installation by artist Bruce Munro, art exhibits by Derek Robertson and Iman Tajik. Words from Marjorie Lofti Gill and Amal Azzudin, Bosnian music and the launch of The Ellie Maxwell Award.