Lord-Lieutenant of Greater London compels Londoners to celebrate the good in our capital

Speaking at a youth charity event in South London last week, the Lord-Lieutenant of Greater London, Sir Kenneth Olisa OBE, spoke to guests about the importance of focusing on, and celebrating, the good that young people are doing in our city. He said, “Yes, we know there is deprivation and poverty, but it is important that we also focus on what is good in our city, and that is why I support BIGKID Foundation.”

Sir Kenneth, who is Patron of the multi-award winning charity, spoke at their 10 year anniversary celebration at Larkhall Park, in Stockwell, last week. At the event, the charity’s founder Shaninga Marasha highlighted the stories of the young people the charity works with – he spoke of young people being the first in their families to complete their education and go on to university, and of others who had turned away from the temptations of crime and youth violence to pursue legitimate careers. Two of the charity’s young people spoke candidly about the areas in which they
Sir Kenneth’s comments resonated with the guests who, like many, are shocked by the constant reports of violent crime in the capital. In 2017, there was a 22% increase in knife crime, and so far this year 31 people under the age of 25 have been murdered.
live, and how BIGKID Foundation had helped them with their self-esteem and given them opportunities to flourish, while also giving them the tools to help others do the same.

BIGKID Foundation is working closely with Sir Kenneth to address these issues and increase social inclusion in London. “I think Sir Kenneth’s sentiments are crucial to bear in mind when tackling the root causes of this issue. I’ve been working with young people for over 10 years now, and youth violence has come and gone from the spotlight, but there are many organisations, just like us, who are doing good work day in and day out, no matter what is thrown at them – and I believe we are the key to turning things around in our capital,” said founder and CEO of BIGKID Foundation, Shaninga Marasha.

For more information contact Florence Collenette florence@bigkidfoundation.org