Yevheniia's Story: 'I was just one person and then the war happened, now I'm a totally different person'
Yevheniia was happy at home in Dnipro, Ukraine – managing her own business, meeting friends after work and spending time with family. But in February 2022, her life was changed forever by the trauma of war and Yevheniia was forced to flee Ukraine without her loved ones. Determined to build a future for herself, Yevheniia joined a Newcastle United Foundation employability course. She accepted every opportunity in front of her and has recently secured work in the tech industry to regain her confidence, her identity and to establish a new life in Newcastle.
Ethan's Story: 'The Foundation helped me feel like I mean something'
Ethan had the life of any other teenager until his world was turned upside down by the loss of his father. Bravely returning to school in September, Ethan began attending intervention sessions with Newcastle United Foundation to support his wellbeing and help rebuild his confidence in school.
Oli's Story: 'Being able to play football makes me very happy'
Oli was diagnosed with type 2 spinal muscular atrophy, a rare condition preventing Oli from walking or standing – but nothing could stop Oli from pursuing his passion for sport.
Afrata's Story: 'I'm one step closer to my dream'
Support from Newcastle United Foundation has allowed Afrata to find her voice and make friends for life. With newfound confidence and support from her mentors and friends, Afrata now studies healthcare and is building a future in her new community with dreams of becoming a doctor.
Ruby's Story: 'There's always something better coming'
As a young carer, Ruby is responsible for supporting her family and balances commitments at home alongside her own school studies. After finding the transition from primary to secondary school particularly challenging, an intervention from Newcastle United Foundation created a lasting impact on Ruby’s behaviour and mental wellbeing, boosting her school attendance and helping her enjoy education once more.
James's Story: "Joining Walking Football was beyond anything I could have hoped for"
At age 46, James underwent surgery for a non-malignant cyst on his brain – the next day in hospital he suffered a stroke and was paralysed down his left side. James used a wheelchair for six months, navigating life with a brain injury as he did all he could to regain his independence. Doctors recommended James exercise to limit seizures, but it 14 years of recovery before he could consider playing sport. With signposting from a specialist charity, James was invited to join the Foundation’s specialist walking football sessions supporting participants with acquired brain injuries to enjoy staying active safely. James had never played football before but was euphoric after his first session. His confidence has improved so much, James now joins regular walking football session and is enjoying every minute of making up for lost time.
Joe’s Story: ‘I turned my life around at the right moment and I want to change other people's lives'
A series of significant life events saw Joe, an academic teenager, become so disruptive he was moved from mainstream education to a pupil referral unit. He left school with one GCSE, had poor mental health and no hope for the future. He became determined to make something of himself and after working with Newcastle United Foundation, he now aims to inspire other young people to achieve and be the best father to his little girl.
Kim’s Story: ‘All I've ever wanted to do is help people and make a difference'
Kim’s life was turned upside down by a rare cancer diagnosis that saw her endure multiple surgeries and years of rehabilitation work. As a single parent, Kim did all she could to provide for her little boy and when NUCASTLE opened on their doorstep, it quickly became a home away from home.
Brooklynn’s Story: ‘Working with Newcastle United Foundation has changed my life'
Brooklynn was ground down by years of challenges disrupting her childhood, dealing with issues around homelessness, addiction, domestic abuse and suicide as she grew up.
Harry’s Story: ‘I want everyone to try their best and keep believing in themselves'
Harry has been a football fanatic for life, playing the sport he loves from age 10 at Newcastle United Foundation’s Down Syndrome football club. He aspires to coach and uses Foundation and college development teams to hone his craft.
Lee’s Story: ‘I want to help people change their lives the way Newcastle United Foundation helped change mine'
Lee’s turbulent childhood often left him without a safe space to call home. Now 16 and an apprentice with Newcastle United Foundation, he hopes to help change the lives of other young people.
Bunny’s Story: ‘Newcastle United Foundation helped me become the person I am today'
Bunny qualified for support from Newcastle United Foundation’s Prince’s Trust TEAM programme. Following this support, social anxiety no longer held Bunny back in the safety of NUCASTLE, transforming their life to take on their first job as a runner for a TV and film production company – a dream come true for a young person who thought a bright future was beyond reach.