Rio Ferdinand has given his support to a new campaign commemorating the 20th anniversary of Damilola Taylor’s death.
The Peckham-raised footballer’s charitable foundation is partnering with the Damilola Taylor Trust with #Hope2020 – celebrating young people as a force for positive change.
As part of this work the Rio Ferdinand Foundation has set up a series of online workshops for young people.
In a statement about why he has joined the #HopeCollective, Ferdinand said: “I remember the impact the death of Damilola had on Peckham and society.
“Twenty years on I am delighted that my own foundation is working with the Damilola Taylor Trust and the Hope Collective helping to shape this memorial campaign.
“It is important we change the narrative around young people and offer support and pathways to allow them to shape a positive future and and fulfil their potential.”
Hope 2020 is based around a public health approach to knife crime – believing more support and early intervention can help vulnerable youngsters stay on the right path.
It is also recruiting a growing number of ‘Hope Ambassadors’ – young people who are sharing their stories of ambition, hope and positivity for the future.
For more information, visit: www.hope2020.uk/
To get involved with the Rio Ferdinand Foundation visit: https://rioferdinandfoundation.com