A Belfast boxer has opened up on how he's helping young people from diverse religious and cultural backgrounds with their mental and physical health by using his own experience.
Steven Ward's Fight2Thrive programme gives one-to-one support to young people through boxing training and education through positive conversations. The programme helps promote mental fitness, reduces anti-social behaviour, and supports young people.
Recently, a group of 30 young people from Ballycastle, Dunmurry, and Dungannon took part in the six-week boxing programme. To mark the achievements of the 30 young people, a celebration event was held this week, with certificates being presented by two-time world champion boxer Carl Frampton.
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Speaking about the programme, Steven Ward said: "As a young man, I discovered boxing as a lifeline for coping with trauma and self-expression. In my journey as a youth worker, I realised how the sport could help young people through the challenges and stresses of life.
"It has been great to see these young people see the benefits of combining positive conversations and invigorating physical exercise. They’ve learned the basics of boxing, pads and circuits; whilst exploring the power of talking and the importance setting meaningful goals.”
The celebration event was held on Monday, January 27 in The Dunsilly Hotel, Antrim, and saw the programme’s participants treated to dinner, before receiving their programme certificates from Carl Frampton.
Speaking at the celebration event, two-time world champion boxer Carl Frampton, said: “I know firsthand how the sport of boxing can transform lives; instilling in young people the discipline, resilience and self-belief that allows them to achieve their potential. Congratulations to the young people who took part in the Fight2Thrive programme. I hope with the right opportunity and positive role models they will achieve greatness and shine like the champions they are.”
The programme was supported by Apex Housing Association (Apex) through the ‘Housing for All’ Shared Housing Programme. Teresa McCloskey from Apex Housing Association commented: "It’s been wonderful to see the confidence of these young people grow during the programme.
"They’ve experienced the positive connection between physical and mental health, and we hope that lesson will stay with them for many years to come. This is one of many good relations projects we are delivering across Northern Ireland. Our shared neighbourhoods in Ballycastle, Dunmurry and Dungannon are all seeing the positive impact on community relations, thanks to the commitment and engagement of local people and groups.”
The delivery of the Fight2Thrive programme in Ballycastle, Dunmurry and Dungannon has been supported by the Department for Communities and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive’s ‘Housing for All’ Shared Housing Programme. The Programme has its origins in the NI Executive Together: Building a United Community Strategy which reflects the Executive’s commitment to improving community relations and continuing the journey towards a more united and shared society. A potential of £16.2 million will be invested in Apex’s shared housing developments in Ballycastle, Dunmurry and Dungannon to deliver homes and contribute to each area’s good relations plan.
Take a look through our photo gallery below for some pictures from the celelbration event...
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