Bradford (Park Avenue) Sports Foundation is proud to announce a new initiative in partnership with Sound of Change and Mark Stevens, launching an inspiring community project titled Play It Forward.
This initiative combines the strengths of sport, music, mentorship and storytelling to support young people across Bradford. By offering creative workshops, football sessions and lived-experience testimonies, Play It Forward is designed to help participants develop resilience, confidence and a stronger sense of belonging.
At its core, the project aims to address some of the biggest challenges facing young people today, including mental health pressures, social isolation and exposure to crime. Through creativity and sport, participants will learn to transform lived experiences into positive outcomes while building the skills to make confident, constructive life choices.
What Play It Forward Involves
- Music & Storytelling Workshops – turning personal experiences into songs, poetry and spoken word.
- Community Sports & Mentorship – using football and teamwork to encourage growth, leadership and self-belief.
- Peer Testimonies – young people and mentors sharing stories of resilience and change.
- Media & Content Creation – empowering participants to create and share positive messages through film and digital platforms.
Why It Matters
Play It Forward is more than a single event. It is designed as a catalyst for long-term change, showing young people that their voices matter and their challenges can be overcome. Participants will leave with stronger peer connections, new role models and practical tools to support their mental wellbeing.
Mathew Everett, Community Director, said:
“This is an exciting and creative way to support young people in education with the resources and tools they need to improve mental health outcomes. By combining sport, music, and open discussion, we’re giving young people the chance to express themselves, build resilience, and feel a true sense of belonging. We’re delighted to partner with Mark and his team at Sound of Change and look forward to building a strong, long-term partnership.”
To get in touch with our Community Director Mat Everett, contact him on Mathew.Everett@bpafc.com
Bradford (Park Avenue) Sports Foundation is committed to combining sport with opportunity and community support — and Play It Forward is a clear example of that mission in action.
To directly support this initiative, donate here https://localgiving.org/charity/bpasportsfoundation and use code PLAYITFORWARD.
