Inspire recently hosted a breakfast event to thank its supporters and showcase the real-world impact of partnership. Held with nearly 100 attendees, the gathering featured moving speeches, powerful personal stories, and a shared sense of community purpose.
Inspire’s Deputy CEO, Andy Crump, addressed the room, highlighting the organisation’s commitment to putting young people at the centre of their own journeys.
“Support, whatever it looks like for young people, is there for them when they need it.
“We allow young people to be at the centre of their journey, we’re not trying to force them into what we think they need. That’s why it’s so important they get to meet people like those in this room, it helps them understand the environment and find what suits them.
“That’s why we say helping shape your future is important to us.”
Andy also welcomed three young people to share their personal experiences with Inspire. Among them was Vik who spoke about his story, how he was sofa-surfing, unemployed and feeling lost before Inspire. He’s now working as an SIA officer at Ipswich Football Stadium, and settled in new accommodation.
Supporters also heard from Nadia, who is currently completing a business IT apprenticeship at GMA, made possible through Inspire’s Youth Employment Service.
“I want people to know how Inspire can take your negative experiences and turn them into positive ones,” she said. “They can make you more confident and show you what’s possible if you just give them a try.”
The morning also included a speech from Dan Everitt, Managing Director of MSC and a long-standing Inspire+ member. He emphasised the importance of corporate partnerships in helping young people navigate their personal and professional challenges.
“Not everybody’s journey is an easy one, so that’s why we partner up,” said Everitt. “Young people are our future, and today has showcased how important that support can be.”
He shared the inspiring stories of two apprentices who began their careers at MSC with the help of Inspire. One started in 2019 as a customer service apprentice and now works as a sales executive.
“The courses at Inspire not only fueled my passion for learning but also significantly boosted my confidence and social skills,” he said. “I’m committed to becoming the best version of myself.”
Another young woman, who joined MSC in 2022, recently progressed from customer service to the commercial team.
“Without Inspire, I wouldn’t have been able to take this chance on my career,” she said. “They helped me explore career paths and gain the experience I needed.”
Dan closed his speech with a call to action, saying: “It would not be possible without partners, and I think we have a responsibility to continue to support these people. It’s tough out there, we have a cost of living crisis, but if you continue to invest in Inspire, you continue to see the fruits of our labour.
“It’s not all about finance, it’s also connecting the young people, and giving them an opportunity.”
