Dren Youth Board Chair Expand Dren is currently studying a masters in Sports Management and is very keen on sports development and the equal chance for all to participate. He has played football at semi-professional level and for his university team and also enjoys tennis and swimming in his spare time. "I am on the Youth Board so I can firstly be representative and channel a voice for those who may not have equal opportunities in sports. Being part of this group also gives me the chance to contribute and be part of the brilliant work that Access Sport does whilst additionally developing various skills such as my communication, team working and also leadership qualities."
Ruby Youth Board Vice-Chair Expand I work as a sports development officer, children's sports coach and nanny. I have a passion for sport and fitness with key interests in yoga and kickboxing. Ruby is now studying Sport, Exercise and Health Science at the University of Birmingham. "I am on the youth board so that I can contribute to creating equality within sports. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to meet new people."
Dhilan Expand Dhilan is a BMX coach for Access Sport, and this stems from a desire to help the younger generation. The opportunity to see progress being made drives Dhilan, as well as his own love of BMX. Most of his spare time is spent riding any sort of bike, and he is always training for BMX racing. "I am on the Youth Board for personal growth and development, and to help out within the community."
Eniola Expand Eniola is a corporate lawyer at an international law firm. She spent several years volunteering at major sporting events and coaching netball in primary schools. She also competed for several years as a sprinter and now enjoys playing netball, boxing and bouldering in her spare time. "I am on the youth board to lend support to grassroots sports clubs after the COVID-19 pandemic."
Gemma Expand After sustaining an injury turned lifelong physical disability, and experiencing first-hand the challenges of navigating a world that is not always designed with accessibility in mind, my disability quickly became a catalyst for my passion for inclusivity. I want to contribute to the great work that Access Sport do, ensuring that physical activity opportunities are inclusive and accessible for children, taking a stand for inclusion. "I am on the Youth Board to collaborate with like-minded young people with a passion for inclusivity."
Grace Expand Grace found her love for all things basketball when she lived in New York. Grace now lives in London and has been a huge part of our Disability Inclusion programme's Safe Haven Basketball Club, working with her mum to develop basketball for young people with learning disabilities across London. When not on the court, Grace is a member of the Middlesex Cricket Club's Disability Squad and has thoroughly enjoyed her two years with the group. "I am on the Youth Board because I was chosen to get involved with the panel and the charity's projects."
Jade Expand A volunteer and coaching assistant at Waltham Forest Athletics Club, Jade enjoys working with both children and adults with disabilities and is an exemplary ambassador for inclusion. Jade is studying Physiotherapy, and hopes to become a Physiotherapist for those with disabilities. In her spare time, Jade is a keen artist and photographer. "I'm on the youth board to be a voice for the youth."
Katherine Expand Katherine is based in Manchester and works as a sports consultant for a professional services firm. She took up rowing at university and now trains and competes at a local club. "I am on the Youth Board because I am passionate about the benefits of community sport and believe it should be easily accessible to all, regardless of background or ability."
Rhys Expand Rhys is an LTA Level 1 tennis coach and assists with the coaching of various groups of children up to 4 times every week in and around Bristol. He also helps out at an Ability Tennis group affiliated with Access Sport which is run during the summer and autumn months. Rhys regularly competes in Learning Disability tennis tournaments throughout England and Wales and took part in the GB Special Olympics in Sheffield in 2017. "I am on the Youth Board because I enjoy playing tennis and helping others to learn to play."
Sky Expand Sky is one of Access Sport's BMX coaches, and has shown a true desire and talent to coach others. Sky is also an Olympic Weightlifting competitor on the Jamaican National Squad. "I am on the Youth Board for personal growth and to be more involved with Access Sport."