A Triumphant Finish!
What a journey it's been! Our 2025 Schools Programme is wrapping up this month, and we couldn't be prouder of the incredible progress. We're thrilled to confirm 61 students are on track to complete their accreditation across four fantastic schools – each a vital part of our programme's story. This year, we were absolutely delighted to welcome Harrow High to the family, and their enthusiasm has been infectious!
June has been a powerhouse month, as we successfully completed four dynamic exchange days.
Our students and staff navigated London, covering impressive distances as they embraced teamwork and leadership challenges. A huge shout-out to Equinix for partnering with us for a second consecutive year! Their amazing volunteers jumped in, sharing industry insights and helping our participants shine during what were truly packed and impactful days. We're celebrating every success as this cohort concludes their programme!
Bring on the Summer!!!
Welcome Back (Mase)
Welcome, or should we say welcome back, to Halema Hussain, FJ’s newest Trustee.
Halema first joined the FJ schools programme back in 2012 as a participant at Copeland High (now Ark Elvin Academy). She continued onto FJ Ambassadors, before launching off into the world of Adult Social Care and Finance. We are so happy that she has returned to join our Board of Trustees, bringing her journey full circle.
What's a standout memory of your time on the FJ Programmes?
My standout memory from the FJ programme was travelling to the different parts of London to engage with other young people from different schools. This is a very fond memory for me as I was able to travel independently for the first time around London and got to know how the underground lines work. Travelling around London not only boosted my confidence but also expanded my knowledge about different communities in London and their demographics.
Reflecting back, were there any important lessons that have influenced how you see things now?
Embrace changes because it is crucial for our personal and professional growth it fosters adaptability and resilience and new opportunities. It allows us to learn from our and others experiences, develop new skills and navigate the ever evolving world. By embracing change I learned we can unlock our
potential, overcome challenges and live a more fulfilling life.
Do you have any advice for FJ's newest recruits?
Don’t be afraid! Focus on building stronger relationships, actively listening and learn from your coaches and ensure to commit to continuous learning. Always remember that engaging in new activities leads to increased creativity and problem solving which builds our resilience.
And finally, what is your hope for FJ's future, now that you're part of our leadership?
My aim is to use my knowledge of the programme and professional background to make a positive impact in future planning for the organisation's growth. Additionally, I see this trusteeship as an opportunity to keep upskilling my expertise and knowledge, and build more transferable skills, just as the programmes did for me many years ago.
Support Football Journeys for FREE When You Shop Online!
Did you know you can support Football Journeys without spending an extra penny? We've got an exciting way for you to help us, and it's incredibly easy!
Every time you shop online – whether it's for your weekly groceries, gifts, clothes, or even booking your next holiday – over 8,000 retailers like Tesco, M&S, John Lewis, eBay, Argos, ASOS, Booking.com, and many more, will donate to us for FREE through easyfundraising! Yes, you can raise money for Football Journeys just by shopping like you normally do!
It's quick, it's easy, and it's FREE!
My Football Journeys, A Full Circle Moment to Our Biggest Event Yet!
A massive shoutout to all our incredible corporate supporters and NGOs who helped make our first Ambassador Family Fun Day and Corporate Competition a huge success!
We're especially grateful to Academia, Revitalise Technology, Primal Runners, Athlead, QPR, and Wolverhampton Wanderers for contributing to a truly fantastic day. Your support made it all possible!
What’s Coming Up this summer?
We’re kicking off the summer with a Match of the Day
A workshop in collaboration with the London Screen Academy—giving our Ambassadors the chance to explore sports media like never before.
Followed by our summer programme ‘My London’
A bold blend of creativity and football along the South Bank. Think portraits, short film-making, corporate collabs, and hands-on workshops, putting their skills to the test.
This year, for the first time we are officially launching a FJ Youth Advisory Board
Our experienced ambassadors will have the chance to support programme delivery, join Youth Advisory meetings, and play a key role in shaping the future of FJ from the inside out.
Run 5, Impact 50
Mark & Ian's Challenge!
Our Trustees, Mark and Ian, are lacing up for a major fundraising push this month. They're running 5 miles every day for 50 days to raise £50,000 for our "50 for 50" campaign – a crucial initiative that will provide a full year of programs for 50 young people.
We're 12% towards our target! Help us build momentum and secure the future for these amazing participants.
FJ is looking to develop an App. Are you the wizard we need to help us scope the project?
Standing strong in challenge, growing stronger in purpose
This past quarter has brought its fair share of challenges, particularly underscoring how tough the third sector can be when it comes to securing traditional funding. That’s exactly why initiatives like our 50 for 50 campaign, led by our trustees, are so vital. Their goal to raise £50,000 is ambitious, and necessary. I encourage all of our valued supporters to get involved, whether by making a donation or simply spreading the word. Every action helps us reach more young people.
Amidst these challenges, we’re proud to see our partnership model gaining strength. We’re delighted to welcome Academia as a new partner, their support has already helped make experiences like our recent May bank holiday Ambassadors celebration possible.
Collaborations like these are central to our mission and long-term growth.
This summer marks an exciting milestone for Football Journeys: for the first time, we’ll be running multiple programmes across different age groups. This evolution not only broadens our reach but deepens the experiences we’re able to offer, shaping an impactful summer for all involved.
I wish all of you the best summer possible and look forward to sharing what we get up to!