Welcome to the Charity Champions Podcast!

Our Divisional Director, Emily Formby, sits down with Katherine Vesey, the founder of Hearts4Refugees, to talk about how compassion, community, and courage come together to create real change for people seeking safety and belonging.

Katherine shares her journey from local volunteer to community leader, reflecting on the challenges of building Heart4refugees from the ground up and the moments of hope that keep her going. She opens up about the impact of the war in Ukraine, the power of small acts of kindness, and how food and friendship have become bridges between cultures.

Their conversation explores leadership, empathy, and the everyday realities of building community through compassion, a reminder that lasting change begins when people come together with open hearts and shared purpose.

Welcome to the Charity Champions Podcast!

Our Divisional Director, Emily Formby, chats with Kieran, the founder of 'Sports Fun 4 All', about how football and community can come together to inspire confidence, belonging, and change in young people’s lives.

Kieran talks about his journey from local coach to founder, the early struggles of starting out, and how 'Sports Fun 4 All' grew from one small idea into a trusted community space across London. He also reflects on what it means to lead with purpose, build a supportive team, and stay grounded while growing a charity.

Their conversation explores resilience, leadership, and the quiet power of giving people a place where they feel seen and valued.

Welcome to the Charity Champions Podcast!

Our Divisional Director Emily Formby sits down with Melissa, the founder of Sew Positive, to talk about how sewing, creativity, and community can bring people together and spark personal change.

Melissa shares how her volunteers are supported through training and supervision and the role of creativity in improving mental wellbeing. She also opens up about her own experience with mental health, the importance of asking for help, and how strong trustee partnerships make small charities resilient.

Their conversation explores community, sustainability, and the quiet strength behind small acts of repair, both in fabric and in life.