Inspire has a variety of programmes created to help young people uncover their full potential.
However, for 25-year-old Leon and 26-year-old Alisha, it has also meant finding love.
The couple met while taking part in one of Inspire’s Personal Development Programmes this year, and bonded after taking a trip together to buy birthday presents for some of the other participants.
They made things official in April and since then the relationship has continued to blossom.
Leon said: “We celebrate our anniversary every month, because every month is a blessing.
“We always celebrate by watching a rubbish movie and ordering a takeaway. For our one-year anniversary next year, I’d love to cook for her, but I can’t cook so it will be an experience.”
The pair support each other with their struggles, with Leon helping Alisha with her social anxiety.
“I’m trying to help her become more comfortable going out and about,” he said. “We go to the shops together, we come to Social Space, and in the future I’d like to take her to the cinema.”
And when Leon is dealing with his own issues with gender dysphoria, Alisha has been at his side, saying to her partner: “I always say to you, I love you for you.”
Alisha added: “My favourite thing about Leon is how honest he is and how he accepts me for me. He’s never judged me; he’s always been there to help me with everything.”
“As cringe as it sounds, I’ve never felt love like this before,” Leon said. “She is the only person I see a future with.”
The programme also gave the couple the confidence to reach their potential finding employment, with Leon working as a support worker at a care home, and Alisha working as a sports coach at Inspire’s holiday clubs. They also both dedicate time to voluntary positions.
