JustBeingCP

In January 2022 I stepped down as the chair of the Football versus Homophobia youth panel.

This week Football versus homophobia launched their search to find my successor and I wanted to write a blog about what it is like to hold this prestigious role.

I absolutely loved being appointed the chair of this incredible youth panel in July 2020 as I saw it as an opportunity to make a real difference to those who don’t normally have a voice.

I led the youth panel through one month of action and trans week of action which was an incredible experience because they were both virtual due to the pandemic.

As part of our month of action events in 2021 I was given the opportunity to interview England cerebral palsy International Harry Baker.

This was an incredible opportunity for me as it allowed me to explore the issues of disability within football something that I am passionate about.

It was incredible to hear Harry’s experiences of growing up with cerebral palsy and then going on and playing football for his country.

The Football versus Homophobia youth panel also gave me the opportunity to develop and test my leadership skills as a youth leader.

I would encourage anybody who is passionate about getting young people heard and developing their leadership skills to apply for this prestigious role so that you have the opportunity to work with some of the most incredible young people Within youth leadership and football.

Finally I would like to place on record my thanks to the Football versus Homophobia youth panel and the team at Football versus Homophobia for giving me the opportunity to lead the youth panel for just under two years.

Cam