The Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation is a charity partner of the Arsenal and adidas No More Red campaign, and April 22 is Stephen Lawrence Day. Esther Ope Elias, aged 18, tells us how the foundation has inspired her to help change society.
“I am the founder of an organisation called the Effort Over Environment Foundation, where our mission is to showcase, engage and inspire minority and inner-city girls who are currently involved in the football industry or aspire to build a career within it. On top of that I’m an under-18 coach at Crystal Palace Women, as well as an under-16 scout for a boys’ talent identification centre.
“The alarming rate of knife crime has left a profound mark on our communities, and that has driven us to take action. Inspired by initiatives like Arsenal’s No More Red campaign, we recognise the power of football as a vehicle for change – how it can be used to deter young people from resorting to violence and provide them with constructive pathways.
“We offer support, guidance and opportunities within the football industry to help steer people away from the dangers of knife crime and towards a brighter future.
“I became aware of No More Red through the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation, which I had in turn discovered on a CV workshop they ran with adidas. I was drawn to be involved with the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation because I deeply admire their cause and their resilience in creating a lasting legacy for change.
“The foundation’s commitment to promoting social justice and equality resonates with me on a profound level. Stephen Lawrence’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the injustices that persist in our society, and I am inspired by the foundation’s dedication to honouring his memory by advocating for positive societal transformation. I wanted to join forces with the Foundation to contribute to their mission of fostering a more inclusive and equitable world for all.
“I volunteered in outreach programmes during the foundation’s 30th anniversary commemorations, taking part in activities aimed at raising awareness and promoting the foundation’s mission. I also helped during the memorial service to honour Stephen Lawrence’s legacy and advocate for justice and equality. I feel I have been privileged to play a role in advancing the foundation’s work and fostering positive change in our communities.
“Being involved with the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation has had a profound impact on me. Not only has it provided me with invaluable mentorship, but it has also opened doors to some great career opportunities.
“The guidance and support I’ve received from the foundation have been instrumental in my personal and professional growth. I’ve gained a deeper understanding of social justice issues and the importance of advocacy, further fuelling my commitment to creating positive change. It has shaped both my outlook on the world and my trajectory in life.
“Stephen Lawrence Day is crucial for raising awareness about racism and inequality. It commemorates Stephen Lawrence’s life and tragic death, prompting reflection and action towards a more just and inclusive society.
“The No More Red campaign is also incredibly important. It not only raises awareness about the devastating impact of knife crime but also provides vital pathways and a supportive community for individuals at risk. By promoting alternatives to violence and offering resources for education, employment and mentorship, the campaign empowers young people to make positive choices and build brighter futures. It fosters a sense of belonging and solidarity within communities, uniting individuals in the shared goal of creating safer and more resilient neighbourhoods. Overall, the No More Red campaign plays a vital role in addressing the root causes of knife crime and providing hope for a better tomorrow.”
About Stephen Lawrence Day
Stephen Lawrence Day is held each year on April 22 to commemorate the 18-year-old who was murdered in a racially motivated attack in 1993. It is an opportunity for people, communities, and organisations to come together and honour Stephen’s life and legacy, stand up against discrimination in our daily lives, and work towards a more hopeful tomorrow.
“Through reflection, learning, and action, we can inspire change and create a better future for the next generation,” says the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation.
The Foundation works in classrooms and communities to give marginalised young people support and access to professional opportunities across a wide range of sectors and industries.
For more information click here, and for more on No More Red click here
Esther leads a workshop for minority girls who aspire to a career in football
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