Foundation of Light has officially launched its new five-year strategy at a high-profile business breakfast at the Beacon of Light, bringing together partners, stakeholders and supporters to look ahead to the next chapter of its work across the North East.
The event followed the Foundation’s landmark 25th anniversary launch at Westminster, which marked the start of a year-long programme of celebrations recognising a quarter-century of impact. Today’s ‘Brighter Tomorrow’ event focused on the region, the people and partnerships that will help shape the Foundation’s future.
Almost 100 guests attended the breakfast, sponsored by Aspire and hosted by Jeff Brown, with contributions from senior figures across football and the Premier League.
Opening the event, former Sunderland AFC player and Foundation ambassador Kevin Ball spoke about the power of sport to change lives, drawing on his own experiences and the Foundation’s long-standing role in supporting young people and communities.
He was followed by David Bruce, Chief Business Officer at Sunderland AFC, who highlighted the close relationship between the Club and the Foundation and their shared commitment to using football as a force for good.
A key moment of the morning saw the Foundation reflect on its 25-year journey through powerful personal stories. Guests heard from Anthony Parkinson, now an Employability Coach at the Foundation after first engaging as a participant over 15 years ago, and Kailum McDermont, whose journey from young father and injured footballer to qualified coach showcased the long-term impact of the charity’s support.
A video message from former Lioness Steph Houghton, who began her football journey with the Foundation, further underlined the organisation’s legacy and reach.
Foundation of Light Chief Executive Lesley Spuhler then formally launched the Brighter Tomorrow strategy, setting out how the organisation will focus on three core priorities over the next five years: Being Skilled, Being Connected and Being Well.
The strategy outlines an ambitious plan to widen access to education, employability and training; strengthen community connection and inclusion; and improve physical and mental wellbeing through sport and activity.
Speaking at the event, Lesley Spuhler said: “Westminster marked the start of our anniversary year, but today is about our region, our partners and our shared future. Brighter Tomorrow sets out how we will work together to remove barriers, unlock potential and ensure that no one is left on the sidelines over the next five years.”
Black Cats legend Kevin Ball added: "I thoroughly enjoyed the event. Listening to people explain the effect the Foundation has had on them is brilliant. One of the young people said, ‘just walk through the door and there’s help for you’ and it just proves what an amazing place it is.”
The event closed with remarks from Premier League Head of Community Emma Joussemet, who reaffirmed the Premier League’s support for the Foundation’s work and its role within communities across the region.
Guests were invited to continue conversations over breakfast and networking, with opportunities to learn more about how they can support the Foundation through partnerships, volunteering and fundraising as the charity embarks on its next 25 years.
The ‘Brighter Tomorrow’ business breakfast marks a key milestone in the Foundation of Light’s anniversary year, translating the national momentum from Westminster into collaboration and ambition across the North East.
Foundation of Light officially kicked off its 25th anniversary year with a landmark celebration event at the Houses of Parliament, bringing together national leaders, partners and supporters to mark a quarter-century of impact across the North East.
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