People have been very kind and generous to me over the last few years. They have supported my endeavours in hundreds of ways from gifting their time, energies and talents to shouting words of encouragement which kept me going when the going was tough. Every act of giving, whether it is large or small, is a positive action and has the power to change lives. While I have thanked everyone that has supported me, and continue to do so, I choose to give back as a concrete way of “paying forward” the kindness and generosity shown to me.
For the past month I have been giving back to the Sussex community by visiting local schools on Mondays and Fridays. By visiting schools I am able to talk with young people of all ages. This allows me to be in contact with them and their thoughts. Of course I am learning from them all the time. Some groups will hang back after a talk; a little shy about asking questions in front of their friends, and then surge forward to bombard me with questions after the formal presentation is done. Others can barely contain themselves and their hands are up in the air waving for my attention to ask their question.
The great thing about young people is they will ask what is on their mind. I talk openly, and gauge appropriately about my injuries and experiences. They are accepting and understanding, sometimes more so than adults who may feel uncomfortable around a disability. By spending time with them I am learning more about their thoughts and dreams for the future. In addition, I ask for their ideas for BRIT.
Recently I have been telling students about the BRIT 2012 Challenge and they are excited and want to participate. I have intentionally created a challenge where everyone can participate and it is not about physical strength, but about giving back. In fact, everyone around the nation will be able to participate from schools to organisations, from individuals to businesses. Given the energy and enthusiasm I see in the schools, they just might outperform everyone else!
I also ask the young people in the schools I visit who they find inspiring. This is one of the ways BRIT identifies people to ask them to serve as BRIT Mentors, gifting 24 hours a year to young people. At the heart of BRIT, I want to always make sure that young people’s voices are heard.
They have also been telling me the businesses and brands they want to support BRIT. I am often amazed at their understanding of branding and business. There are quite a few budding entrepreneurs out there! When I meet with companies and businesses I do let them know that their consumers want them to support BRIT.
My visits to local schools will continue as a way for me to give back to the community. I enjoy meeting the young people and learning from them. Every time I leave a school I am renewed and excited to continue the building of BRIT, so that our young people that face adversity have a place to go, which is gifted, to help them with their goals and aspirations.
My thanks to the schools that asked me to visit this autumn and the students that have come to my talks and shared their questions, enthusiasm and insights with me. You are all a part of the BRIT family.
Phil
