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.
Hosted in the Churchill Room at Westminster and sponsored by the Premier League, the event welcomed more than 60 guests, including MPs, community leaders, Foundation partners and long-standing supporters, setting the tone for a year of celebration, reflection and ambition.
The event was opened by MP Lewis Atkinson and hosted by TV personality and Foundation trustee George Clarke.
Speakers included Foundation of Light Chief Executive Lesley Spuhler, Premier League Director of Operations and Strategy Andy Parrott, Sunderland AFC Chief Business Officer David Bruce, and Foundation trustee and Olympic legend Steve Cram.
Speaking at the event, Foundation trustee George Clarke said: “The Foundation has grown from a local initiative into one of the most impactful community organisations in the North East.
With the support of its partners, it has worked with over half a million people across Sunderland, South Tyneside and County Durham, helping young people and their families improve their skills, confidence, health and happiness, no matter who they are.
Lesley Spuhler, Chief Executive of the Foundation of Light, said: “For 25 years the Foundation of Light has stood alongside our communities, helping people believe in themselves, build confidence and unlock their potential.
“Launching our anniversary year here at Westminster, surrounded by partners and supporters who share that belief, sends a powerful message about what we’ve achieved together and about the ambition we hold for the next chapter.”
Guests also heard powerful stories from programme participants, including Bobby from Premier League Kicks and Kaillum, whose journey from injured footballer and young father to qualified coach reflected the life-changing impact of the Foundation’s work over the past 25 years.
Former Lioness Steph Houghton, who began her football journey with the Foundation, appeared via video message, underlining the long-term legacy of the organisation’s work.
The afternoon also gave guests an exclusive sneak preview of the Foundation of Light’s new five-year strategy, ahead of its official launch later this month. The strategy sets out bold ambitions to deepen and expand the Foundation’s impact across Sunderland, South Tyneside and County Durham, ensuring the next 25 years deliver even greater opportunity, confidence and hope for communities across the region.
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