SOME 21-year-olds spend their Friday nights out on the town and the remainder of their spare time mastering their favourite video games.
But David Day, of Violet Road Carlton, is holding down five paid positions and a further six voluntary roles.
He lives in Gedling borough, which struggles with youth unemployment. The latest figures show 7.5 per cent of 18-24-year-olds in the borough claim Jobseeker's Allowance.
But David says the problem is not with the attitude of the youngsters but with the amount of jobs available.
Despite enjoying all of his jobs, David still has to deal with an erratic schedule.
He said: "I'm just moving from one job to the next, but I'm used to the way I organise my time. I would much rather be doing something useful than sitting in front of the TV."
David, who has been volunteering since he was ten years-old, wants more people his age to volunteer and thinks it can help people gain valuable skills and boost employability.
He said: "It's just nice to help people out. I would like to see more volunteers and show people how to get involved and how good it feels to help people and see how they react."
David said that some volunteers he has come across have even landed paid work off the back of their free labour.
Dave Thomas, volunteer co-ordinator at Gedling Community and Voluntary Services, echoes his thoughts.
He said: "Young people have always wanted to change the world, and now they seem to be realising that they can make a difference through volunteering."
George Cowcher, chief executive of the Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Chamber of Commerce, said: "David's dedication and commitment to work shows that if you apply the right amount of passion, drive, initiative and entrepreneurial flair to whatever you want to do, you can achieve great things.
"Young people often get a bad press and there are stereotypes out there that are unhelpful and can put them at a disadvantage in the eyes of potential employers. But David just goes to show that there are some talented, driven and creative young people out there who would be an asset to any business."
His contribution is certainly appreciated in the voluntary groups he works with.
Leslie Rhodes, from Gedling Play Forum added: "David puts himself out for anyone. He works as much as he can for us, but we understand his other commitments. I remember when a trip for disabled kids were short of a first-aider, and without any notice David jumped on the bus."
Graham Atkin, president of Mapperley Park Badminton Club, coaches the junior sessions with David.
He said: "David's a great role model for our young players. I've seen people his age volunteer, but never to the extent that David does."
Councillor Liz Plant, vice chairman of the Children and Young People's Committee, at Nottinghamshire County Council said: "We have many examples in the county of young people achieving so much and hopefully David's story provides inspiration to all young people everywhere and provides extra encouragement and incentive."
