Thank you

Friends of RUY

‘Anything is possible when you have the right people there to support’

Misty Copeland

It has been amazing journey to see how REACH UP has been successful. This would not have been possible without the commitment of the young people. The transformation of these young people is evident. They have developed from children to young independent adults. I am proud to be a part of this journey.

Michael RobinsonChair of Reach Up

David has provided continuous support to the group, ensuring they have access to facilities and an opportunity into employment. David understands the difficulties we face in accessing sport facilities due to discrimination, lack of diversity and large numbers. We are grateful to have him as a supporter and a friend, helping the young people access training, swimming lessons and much more.

David BlySports Programme and Engagement Manager

An instant bond was born with the coach, the players and the young people when we attended our first game several years ago. Atiba visited our session on his day off, and gave a motivational talk to our young people. Atiba said “I lost my connection with the community and I want to help and mentor to give something back”. Thanks to Sarah Backovic Sharks Managing Director for all the free tickets and the support of giving the young people volunteering at their Home games.

Atiba LyonsHead Coach of Sheffield Sharks

Yorkshire Sport Foundation initially funded Big Brother Burngreave & Sisterhood projects. Kathryn provides a mentoring role and has worked with young people to improve their aspirations and employability skills. Kathryn has always identified opportunities that empower the young people and provided the appropriate training/course, however it is credit to the young people who have taken this opportunities to shine.

Kathryn MudgeYorkshire Sport Foundation- Development Manager (Communities)

The Sheffield Councillor is passionate about the youth led project, always there to help us fundraise, and provide advice “There’s a lot to learn of how successful this project has been, and I think there’s a lot of other providers to say well if it worked in this area why can’t we do it in our areas as well. I hope the organisation continues to expand and is perhaps replicated without loosing sight of the young people who are vital to making everything happen”.

Abtisam MohamedLabour Councillor (Cabinet member for Education, Skills & Young People)

Magid has been with Big Brother Burngreave from the start and continues to give his support. He has provided the boys with a platform and opportunities such as hosting the party of the year in Sheffield Town Hall in 2018 while he was a Mayor. He gained respect from the community after demonstrating to them that the sky is the limit if you seize your opportunities!

Magid MagidFormer member of the European Parliament and Former Mayor of Sheffield

Mark gave the Organisation a media platform, growing the awareness of our work and providing the young people with the credit they deserve. He listened to our voices, stories and opinions and shared these with the wider community- a fantastic opportunity for us!

Mark AnsellSenior Journalist Reporter BBC LOOK NORTH

Hosting our events, and became an instant mentor, a father figure and life coach to our young people. Lloyd understands the culture, the struggles, the challenges and the everyday fight with pressure. He is a living example of what these young men can become if they are giving a chance.

Lloyds SamuelsLS DJ The Sauce Show, Youth Coordinator Zest