Breaking barriers and building bridges

As a barrister, I’ve had the privilege of overturning wrongful convictions and representing purchasers whose tales wanted to be advised, however my drive for equality and inclusion didn’t cease on the courtroom doorways.

By means of City Legal professionals – an organisation I based to demystify the authorized career for marginalised communities – I’ve mentored 1000’s of younger individuals, empowering them to pursue careers in legislation that when appeared past their attain.

The work we do is transformative and I consider the identical is true for sport.

Sport as a terrific balancing drive

Sport, very similar to the legislation, is usually a highly effective equaliser.

It provides individuals from all walks of life the prospect to excel, to belong and to encourage others.

Some individuals after they consider sport, they consider competitions, however for me it’s far more than that.

I consider sport is a automobile for social change and, as I tackle this new function with TIAG, my mission is evident: to make sure that sport’s immense potential to rework lives is accessible to everybody, regardless of anyone’s background or circumstances.

And for that I’m thrilled to be working alongside Sport England, to make this imaginative and prescient and the organisation’s long-term technique, Uniting the Motion, a actuality.

I’ve lengthy admired Sport England’s dedication to inclusion and this function will enable me to carry my ardour for social justice into a brand new area – one wherein each younger individual, no matter the place they arrive from, has the chance to fulfil their potential.

The facility of collaboration

Some of the thrilling elements of this function is the prospect to work alongside Diane Modahl, a real legend on the earth of sport.

Her extraordinary achievements as an Olympian and her relentless dedication to giving again by means of the Diane Modahl Sports activities Basis (DMSF) are nothing wanting inspiring.

Diane’s work has proven that sport isn’t just about profitable medals – it’s about creating alternatives for younger individuals to thrive, regardless of the obstacles they face.

Having supported Diane’s basis previously, I’ve seen first-hand the affect that sport can have on younger lives.

Collectively, we are going to work to problem the established order and create an inclusive sporting atmosphere the place expertise from all corners of society is nurtured and celebrated.

Diane’s management and unwavering dedication to opening doorways for younger individuals shall be instrumental as we push ahead with this mission.

Constructing a legacy of alternative

All through my profession, I’ve at all times believed within the energy of alternative.

Whether or not by means of my authorized work or my efforts to help younger individuals by means of City Legal professionals, my focus has at all times been on creating pathways to success for many who want them most.

In 2016, I used to be honoured to obtain an MBE for my companies to youth and neighborhood and earlier this yr I used to be awarded an OBE for my contributions to social mobility and legal justice.

These honours replicate a lifetime of dedication to equality and so they additionally function a reminder that there’s nonetheless a lot work to be executed.

At TIAG, we’ve the prospect to create one thing really particular – a system that ensures each younger individual with expertise, drive and fervour has the chance to succeed, regardless of the percentages.

We’re not simply constructing athletes. We’re constructing leaders, function fashions and future change-makers.

Wanting forward – a name to motion

And so, as I tackle this new problem, I’m stuffed with hope and optimism for what lies forward.

Sport has the ability to vary lives and I’m dedicated to making sure that drive is felt by each younger one that desires of greatness.

Along with Sport England, Diane Modahl and an unimaginable group at TIAG, I consider we will create a legacy of alternative, the place no dream is simply too massive and no barrier too excessive.

So let’s construct a future the place expertise is recognised, nurtured and celebrated no matter the place it comes from.

The journey has simply begun and I’m excited for the affect we are going to make collectively.