As a barrister, I’ve had the privilege of overturning wrongful convictions and representing clients whose stories needed to be told, but my drive for equality and inclusion didn’t stop at the courtroom doors.
Through Urban Lawyers – an organisation I founded to demystify the legal profession for marginalised communities – I’ve mentored thousands of young people, empowering them to pursue careers in law that once seemed beyond their reach.
The work we do is transformative and I believe the same is true for sport.
Sport as a great balancing force
Sport, much like the law, can be a powerful equaliser.
It gives people from all walks of life the chance to excel, to belong and to inspire others.
Some people when they think of sport, they think of competitions, but for me it’s much more than that.
I believe sport is a vehicle for social change and, as I take on this new role with TIAG, my mission is clear: to ensure that sport’s immense potential to transform lives is accessible to everyone, no matter anybody's background or circumstances.
And for that I am thrilled to be working alongside Sport England, to make this vision and the organisation’s long-term strategy, Uniting the Movement, a reality.
I’ve long admired Sport England's commitment to inclusion and this role will allow me to bring my passion for social justice into a new arena – one in which every young person, regardless of where they come from, has the opportunity to fulfil their potential.
The power of collaboration
One of the most exciting aspects of this role is the chance to work alongside Diane Modahl, a true legend in the world of sport.
Her extraordinary achievements as an Olympian and her relentless dedication to giving back through the Diane Modahl Sports Foundation (DMSF) are nothing short of inspiring.
Diane’s work has shown that sport is not just about winning medals – it’s about creating opportunities for young people to thrive, no matter the obstacles they face.
Having supported Diane’s foundation in the past, I’ve seen first-hand the impact that sport can have on young lives.
Together, we will work to challenge the status quo and create an inclusive sporting environment where talent from all corners of society is nurtured and celebrated.
Diane’s leadership and unwavering commitment to opening doors for young people will be instrumental as we push forward with this mission.
Building a legacy of opportunity
Throughout my career, I have always believed in the power of opportunity.
Whether through my legal work or my efforts to support young people through Urban Lawyers, my focus has always been on creating pathways to success for those who need them most.
In 2016, I was honoured to receive an MBE for my services to youth and community and earlier this year I was awarded an OBE for my contributions to social mobility and criminal justice.
These honours reflect a lifetime of dedication to equality and they also serve as a reminder that there is still much work to be done.
At TIAG, we have the chance to create something truly special – a system that ensures every young person with talent, drive and passion has the opportunity to succeed, no matter the odds.
We’re not just building athletes. We’re building leaders, role models and future change-makers.
Looking ahead – a call to action
And so, as I take on this new challenge, I am filled with hope and optimism for what lies ahead.
Sport has the power to change lives and I am committed to ensuring that force is felt by every young person who dreams of greatness.
Together with Sport England, Diane Modahl and an incredible team at TIAG, I believe we can create a legacy of opportunity, where no dream is too big and no barrier too high.
So let’s build a future where talent is recognised, nurtured and celebrated regardless of where it comes from.
The journey has just begun and I am excited for the impact we will make together.
