Reshaun Forrest, 21, from Thamesmead, joined the Sport Ambassador Programme in spring 2020

What were you doing before you started the Sport Ambassador Programme?
I was working at local café but wasn’t enjoying and it was affecting my mental health, so I ended up leaving the job as I knew I wasn’t happy. Outside of work I was enjoying my hobbies in cooking, fitness and reading.

Why did you decide to join the programme?
I was doing a lot of walking – about 15 miles a week – which really helped me mentally. It reminded me of the happy times when I was studying sport at school. Being reminded of these times inspired me to get moving and start researching jobs.

What other options were available to you?
I was researching potential careers that I could get into while keeping active, but I didn’t know where to start. After a meeting at the job centre, I knew what industry I wanted to get into and move my hobby into a career.

What happened when you joined the programme?
I participated in workshops that helped me develop my knowledge and skills in sport, which were very enjoyable. Doing something you love and enjoy made learning easy.

Did you have any reservations?
My major worry was about dealing with my mental health while participating in a new programme. I was anxious about remembering everything I was going to be taught, but being able practise these skills in a relaxed environment made everything seem easier. Everyone on the work placement was so helpful and friendly.

How have you benefitted from the programme?
The programme has helped boost my confidence in endless amounts of ways. I’ve gained a sufficient amount of skills to be able to deliver fun, safe and effective sport sessions for the community. The workshops and work placements have been amazing. I also found comfort in making friends who are in the same boat as me and to know that there are other young people who are looking for support. The contacts I’ve made within the industry have been invaluable, they have given me a massive amount of advice and guidance.

What’s next for you?
I would like to continue working and developing my knowledge within the sport and leisure industry. I would like to continue to improve my mental health and help others in similar situations. In the long term, I would like to inspire other young people to do the same. Using sport to change lives has saved my life. I’m very gratefully for the opportunity, it changed my life. I want people to know this.

Korede Adesina, 23, joined the Sport Ambassador Programme in spring 2020

What were you doing before you started the Sport Ambassador Programme? 
I was at Charlton Athletic trying to develop my skills, but it wasn’t really working out and I needed to move forward from that. I was doing some volunteer work locally, however, I was struggling to find sport-related volunteering. I have my GCSEs, but I needed to get sport coaching qualifications to progress in the sport industry.

Why did you decide to join the programme? 
I decided to join the programme to develop my skills as my long-term aim is to become a community sport coach.

What other options were available to you?
I couldn’t find many other options available before finding the Sport Ambassador Programme on social media.

What happened when you joined the programme?
Once I turned up to the programme, I was made to feel comfortable and met other young people in similar situations. It was great to share my own experience and helpful tips with other young people.

Did you have any reservations? 
I was nervous at first as it was a new setting, but the nerves soon went once I started and got involved in the workshops. Turning up to my first volunteer session I was nervous initially but felt supported by my mentor at the placement. Everything was fully explained, and I felt comfortable to ask questions.

How have you benefitted from the programme?
Getting to know other people on the programme has given me a support network to talk about potential options. I’ve been signposted to other programmes to progress further but felt supported each step of the way. I’ve gained valuable work experience, qualifications and knowledge which will help me to become a community sport coach. The course also helped to build my skills in the workplace by working with others within a professional setting. My confidence has increased, and I now have a supportive network around me who have similar interests and can share their own experiences with me.

What’s next for you?
I will be moving on to the Charlton Athletic traineeship and then an apprenticeship with either Charlton Athletic or another partner within the programme. Long term, I would like to find employment working within the community and finish my FA Level 1. I would possibly like to attend college to gain further knowledge.