Breaking barriers and building bridges | Sport England

As a barrister, I've had the honor of reversing unjust convictions and advocating for clients whose narratives deserved to be heard. However, my commitment to equality and inclusion extends beyond the walls of the courtroom.

As the founder of Urban Lawyers, an initiative aimed at making the legal profession more accessible to underrepresented communities, I've had the opportunity to mentor thousands of young individuals. I help them gain the confidence to explore careers in law that they might have previously thought were out of their reach.

The work we engage in brings about significant change, and I think the same can be said for sports.

Sport: A Powerful Balancing Force

Sports, similar to the legal system, can serve as a strong leveler.

It offers individuals from diverse backgrounds the opportunity to succeed, to feel included, and to motivate others.

When many people consider sports, they often focus on competitions. However, for me, it's so much deeper than that.

I think that sports can drive social change, and as I step into this new position at TIAG, my goal is straightforward: to make sure that the significant ability of sports to change lives is available to everyone, regardless of their background or situation.

I'm really excited to be collaborating with Sport England to turn this vision and the organization's long-term plan, Uniting the Movement, into a reality.

I have always respected Sport England's dedication to inclusion, and this position gives me the chance to channel my passion for social justice into a different field. It’s important to me that every young person, no matter their background, has the chance to reach their full potential.

The Strength Of Working Together

One of the most thrilling parts of this position is the opportunity to collaborate with Diane Modahl, an absolute icon in the realm of athletics.

Her remarkable accomplishments as an Olympic athlete and her unwavering commitment to contributing to the community through the Diane Modahl Sports Foundation (DMSF) are truly motivational.

Diane's research reveals that sports go beyond simply earning medals. It's about providing young individuals with chances to succeed, regardless of the challenges they encounter.

Having previously backed Diane’s foundation, I’ve witnessed the positive influence that sports can have on young people’s lives.

We will collaborate to question the current norms and build a welcoming sports community that recognizes and supports talent from every part of society.

Diane’s leadership and strong dedication to creating opportunities for young individuals will be crucial as we advance with this mission.

Creating A Legacy Of Opportunity

During my professional journey, I have consistently held the view that opportunity holds significant potential.

Through my legal practice and my commitment to helping young people with Urban Lawyers, I have consistently aimed to open doors to success for those who need it the most.

In 2016, I was privileged to be recognized with an MBE for my work with young people and the community. Earlier this year, I also received an OBE for my efforts in promoting social mobility and improving the criminal justice system.

These awards recognize a lifelong commitment to equality and highlight that there is still a significant amount of work ahead.

At TIAG, we have the unique opportunity to build something remarkable—an initiative that guarantees every talented, motivated, and passionate young individual can achieve success, regardless of the challenges they face.

We're not just training athletes; we're nurturing leaders, inspiring role models, and fostering future innovators.

Future Focus: A Call To Action

As I embark on this new journey, I feel a sense of hope and excitement about what the future holds.

Sports can transform lives, and I'm dedicated to making sure every young person with aspirations of achieving greatness experiences that impact.

Alongside Sport England, Diane Modahl and an amazing team at TIAG, I’m confident that we can build a lasting legacy of possibilities, where every dream is attainable and no obstacle is insurmountable.

Let’s create a future where skills are acknowledged, developed, and honored, no matter their origin.

We are just starting out, and I’m looking forward to the difference we will create together.