The Young Adults Learning Partnership Awards were launched to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the NIACE/NYA Young Adults Learning Partnership. Throughout the last 10 years the partnership has undertaken a diverse range of research and development projects. These projects have brought YALP into contact with young adult learners from a variety of backgrounds, involved in a vast array of learning and development activities, resulting in inspiring and often life-changing outcomes. In addition to recognising the achievements of individual learners, YALP national awards were presented to a practitioner, a project, and a group of learners. In this article, the author outlines the critical success factors that she believes are essential for effective interventions and support with young adult learners leading troubled lives. Furthermore, she states that the stories behind the YALP awards demonstrate what can be achieved when providers take into account the immediate real-life needs of young adults.