Has overcome loss, addiction and homelessness to become an inspirational mentor and coach helping to give other young people a brighter future.

Harry was just 11 when his mother died suddenly on Christmas morning. His life began to unravel as he stopped attending school, spent less and less time at home and eventually, started heading down the wrong path.  

During this time, his struggles with mental health intensified and he was admitted to hospital., before becoming homeless.

Harry, 24, from Coventry, says: “Life was chaotic. I was struggling with my mental health and my confidence was the lowest it had ever been. “I had no job, no qualifications and no permanent home. I felt like I had no real prospects or skills to overcome the challenges I was facing.”

It was during his period, after seeking support from local homelessness charity St Basil’s, that Harry found out about The King’s Trust Get Started in Outdoor Leadership programme, delivered in partnership with Coventry Outdoors Education and Adventure Service.

Although hesitant at first, Harry decided to embrace the opportunity, and now credits the experience with saving his life. 

He thrived in the outdoor environment and the course itself gave him the chance to reconnect with others and learn practical skills. He was entrusted with leadership responsibilities and for the first time, he began to see his own potential.

Harry excelled in every aspect, achieving ten qualifications and building the confidence he had once lacked. When a job opportunity with Coventry Outdoors Education and Adventure Service arose, he applied and was successful.

Since then, Harry has rebuilt his life. Working directly with young people who are facing their own difficulties, supporting them through outdoor activities that encourage resilience, confidence, and trust. “My life now is  just incomparable to where I was before,” Harry explained. “At my lowest point, I was on the street, freezing cold. Now, I couldn’t be in a better physical or mental place.”

He has aspirations to one day run his own therapy-based coaching service to continue his work in supporting young peopleHis own experiences allow him to connect with young people on a deeper level, offering understanding and guidance.He said: “Working with young people is so rewarding. I’m working with students at risk of exclusion on a 1-1 and group basis. I see myself in a lot of them and can relate to what they’re going through.”

He added: “I didn’t have many role models or access to the support I needed when I was younger. I’m passionate about getting up every morning and providing just that for the next generation of young people.”

What the Judges said: “Harry had to overcome so much at such a young age, but despite all his challenges, he embraced the opportunity to help others. He is a real force for good, who has already changed so many lives.”