Sport and physical activity, at its core, unites people. It brings us together, helps build communities, and can break down barriers in ways few other things can. What was clearly visible at the recent Active Essex Foundation Power of Sport and Youth Crime Prevention Conference, was the shared passion for using sport to do exactly that.
One of the conference’s key themes was how sport and physical activity can help build stronger, more cohesive communities. When people gather to get active, it does more than offer an outlet for recreation, it strengthens relationships between individuals, and helps create safer streets. The work of the Active Essex Foundation continues to show how sport can be a powerful tool for bringing communities together, providing momentum that drives meaningful change at local level.
The essence of teamwork and collaboration is often seen in team sports, but it is equally present in the collective work of the county’s local organisations, who have created real, lasting memories for young people. Sport has the power to teach young people invaluable life skills, showing them the importance of collaboration, trust, and working together to overcome challenges.
For me, one of the most powerful moments came when we heard from young people who had been involved in criminal behaviour and had used sport to turn their lives around. Their stories were raw, emotional and above all, inspiring.
Lewis Richardson, Team GB Boxer and Olympic Bronze Medallist, was one such story. His journey from humble beginnings to the Olympic stage served as a beacon of hope. He showed us first hand how sport can transform a person’s life, providing not only structure and discipline, but also a sense of purpose. Alongside Lewis, young people from ATF shared their own journeys, explaining how sport guided them away from crime and towards personal growth and positive change. These stories weren’t just theoretical examples of what sport could do – they’re real lived experiences that demonstrate sports ability to turn lives around.
Sport alone can’t fix everything, but it can be the spark that ignites a broader system of change. The young people who shared their stories reminded us that the change we want is not just possible – it is already happening. Hearing these testimonies reaffirmed my belief in the transformational power of sport.
