Last night, our Chief Sender of Hugs, Faye, had the opportunity to attend an Accelerate event at the Ernst & Young offices in Leeds. She was invited along by The Prince’s Trust, who supported her in the early days of building BearHugs.
It was one of those evenings that leaves you feeling both inspired and motivated.
The event was part of the EY Foundation’s Accelerate programme, which supports young social entrepreneurs and enterprises. Its focus is on helping organisations create opportunities for young people through employment, education and enterprise.
Being surrounded by people who are all working towards positive change created a really thoughtful and energising atmosphere.
Hearing Stories That Stay With You
One of the highlights of the evening was hearing from Dawn O’Keefe, Managing Director of SHINE, Harehills CIC.
Dawn shared the story of how she transformed a derelict, Grade II listed building into what is now SHINE - a thriving community space in the heart of one of the UK’s most socially and economically challenged areas.
What she has created is far more than just a building. SHINE supports ex-offenders into employment, offers space for artists, connects entrepreneurs with opportunities, and works closely with local schools and the police to support young people.
It was one of those talks that really stays with you. Not because it felt out of reach, but because it showed what’s possible when care, determination and community come together.
