A conversation with Street Futures CIC a Birmingham Breaking Boundaries community organisation

Breaking Boundaries is a three-year programme (2018 –2021) funded by Spirit of 2012, supported by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and The Institute of Community Cohesion (Icoco).

We sit down with Street Futures CIC a Birmingham community organisation on the Breaking Boundaries programme.

1. How did you get involved in Breaking Boundaries and what attracted you?

Street Futures CIC is built on my ambition to get more young people active and involved in the community whilst upskilling them for a fulfilling future. When I was approached by Breaking Boundaries, I immediately knew this is something we had to be involved with because it went hand in hand with the aims of Street Futures. What attracted me was the fact that it was more than a cricket project, it had potential to create a lasting change in society and for our young people.

2. What would you say has been the most valuable impact or learning you have seen as a result of Breaking Boundaries?

The realisation that the champions had developed into well-rounded individuals and great citizens through this project. The training provided by Sporting Equals gave them an understanding of dynamics among different groups from which they learnt the value of a cohesive society. I see this more than ever with their unwavering passion to help others and it is rubbing off on their peers.

3. What has been your most inspirational moment in Breaking Boundaries?

Two of Street Future champions were put forward to become Champion Mentors to support and inspire the next cohort of community champions. I, myself, was inspired when I watched them speak about their journeys, not only by what they were saying, but their confidence to speak so proudly in a room full of strangers. This affirmed to me how impactful this project is for the personal development of young people.

4. If you had to describe your experience of Breaking Boundaries in three sentences what would you say?

Breaking Boundaries provides access to training and volunteering for young people.

Breaking Boundaries opens doors to opportunities for young people

Breaking Boundaries instils cohesion into communities for this generation and those to come.

5. During this period of lockdown do you have any advice you would like to share on how to maintain your wellbeing e.g., keep active/fit/well?

Observe the government guidelines. It is important to keep active but also be mindful of the foods and drinks you consume and the portions of them.

6. How is your organisation staying connected to your local community during lockdown?

We are keeping our young people active with social media challenges. Behind the scenes we are planning future events and designing promotional material for when we restart.