The pilot programme launched by UK Sport, in partnership with The True Athlete Project in 2022, was created after a consultation found that 86% of athletes on the world class programme want to use their platform to make a difference to society, whilst they are still competing. We were fortunate that Darren Young, a GB senior men's athlete successfully applied to be part of the ground breaking programme.
Powered by Purpose was designed to support athletes to engage in more meaningful, authentic, and sustainable social impact activities. The programme included virtual workshops, peer-to-peer support, one-to-one consultations, athlete action plans, as well as an online portal for accessing all programme materials and private discussion forum. We were fortunate that Darren Young, a GB senior men's athlete successfully applied to be part of the ground breaking programme.
The programme culminated with an in-person showcase event at UK Sport where athletes shared their journey through the programme, the specific cause or social issue that they have selected to focus on, and a description of their plan of action going forward.
Since taking part in the programme;
100% of the athletes in the cohort have an increased confidence in making a difference on community or social issues, compared to the 78% before participating in the programme.
100% of participants now feel equipped with the skills and resources to address social challenges, with 88% having a decreased fear of being misunderstood
100% of athletes feel they possess strengths aside from being an athlete, that support their social impact.
Darren Young said about the programme; “Before enrolling on ‘Powered by Purpose’ I was going through my sporting life just ‘playing sport’. I didn’t realise that the sport I love gave me the platform to do more than play. I now realise that I have a purpose whilst I am still playing and even more so when I retire.”
“ ‘Powered by Purpose’ made me understand my potential as an advocate; I have since used my new found knowledge, drive, and determination within the UK Sport Environmental Sustainability Committee as a sitting volleyball representative.”
“A lack of conviction, a lack of belief, a lack of confidence has since gone and been replaced with a purpose. I would highly recommend ‘Powered by Purpose’ to any athlete who would like to make a difference and discover themselves in the process.”