Lang was nominated for the award by LFC Foundation Senior Inclusion Coordinator, Liam Gerrard for his fantastic commitment towards the Refugee and Asylum Seekers Football Programme.

Liam said..

‘I believe Lang truly deserves this Champion of the Month award for his consistent dedication and support to our Foundation, particularly in his role within the football programme. He has been a reliable and engaged participant in four of our weekly sessions for several months, showing great commitment despite his personal challenges.’

One of the standout reasons he deserves this nomination is the way he has supported others in the asylum-seeker community. Living in a hotel with other asylum seekers, he helps promote our football sessions to new participants, encouraging others to join and making them feel welcome. As someone who is fluent in English, he has become an invaluable bridge between those who speak English and those who don’t, helping to explain the rules, expectations, and details of the sessions. His ability to communicate and build a sense of community within the group is commendable.

In addition to his involvement in football, Lang also participated in our employability programme. He showed great enthusiasm and a strong work ethic throughout, fully engaging in the tasks and activities, and consistently attending even on the same evening as the football sessions. His dedication to self-improvement and his ability to balance both football and employability training highlights his resilience and determination.

Overall, his contributions to the programme, his willingness to support others, and his commitment to his own personal development make him a standout individual who truly embodies the spirit of our Foundation. For him personally, attending the sessions has been a positive outlet for stress and a boost to his mental health, providing a sense of routine and connection in a challenging time. His role in supporting others, especially by translating and explaining the rules, has helped build a welcoming and supportive environment for newcomers, which has strengthened group cohesion.

The LFC Foundation has played a crucial role in his development, offering a space for physical activity that improves both his mental and physical health, while also supporting his personal growth. His participation in the employability programme has given him new skills and a sense of purpose, while still managing to attend football sessions, demonstrating his commitment and resilience. It has also instilled a drive to find a place in a local Liverpool college to eventually attend university.

Overall, the programme has given Lang a sense of community, boosted his confidence, and empowered him to take positive steps toward his future.

Looking ahead, Lang is focused on continuing his personal growth and employment prospects. He is motivated to further develop the skills he gained during the employability programme and explore opportunities for work. He has mentioned wanting to support our work in a voluntary capacity and simultaneously develop his own competencies. Additionally, his ongoing participation in the football sessions provides him with a healthy routine and a positive outlet, while also keeping him connected to the community.