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LSBU entrepreneur’s ‘Box-Up Crime’ gains recognition as game-changing organisation
LSBU graduate Stephen Addison has been presented with an Innovation Award by Teach First for his contribution to readdressing inequality in educationStephen Addison is one of five finalists in this year's Innovation Awards out of over sixty entries submitted nationwide. The event was held at Mulberry School for Girls, London where Stephen pitched his innovative boxing scheme to the judging panel before being announced runner up of the annual competition.
Founded in 2013, Box-Up Crime is an organisation dedicated to supporting young people from disadvantaged backgrounds who are at risk of expulsion. The programme has already delivered a marked improvement in behaviour in its first year – including a 43% increase in students who are attending the scheme staying out of trouble.
Stephen said: "I'm honoured to have received this award – it proves to me that with faith and hard work, anything is possible. I want to acknowledge all the time and support LSBU's Graduate Entrepreneur team have dedicated to this organisation. Their ongoing support in all aspects from the organisation's business model to assisting with application forms has been invaluable.
"I was also fortunate enough to have had a fantastic mentor, Dr Gloria Gordon – she is one of the most inspiring lecturers I have ever come across and her consistent guidance and encouragement has contributed to the success of Box-Up Crime."
Stephen receives a tailored package of funding, advice and networking opportunities in aid to help further develop his organisation.
"We are delighted that Stephen was runner-up in the Teach First Innovation award," says Linsey Cole, Head of Student Enterprise at the University. "At LSBU, we support our students to develop enterprise skills and make a positive contribution to their communities and are delighted that Stephen can now work with Teach First to take Box-Up Crime to young people in schools across the country."
Teach First is a leading social enterprise committed to closing the gap in access to higher education by ensuring young people from low-income communities are provided with equal opportunities.