For participants under 13, an adult ally (for example, a teacher, youth worker, parent, or mentor) must complete the submission on your behalf. The story itself should be written in the young person’s own words and perspective. The adult’s role is purely administrative, ensuring safeguarding requirements are met and that you are supported through the process. This is simply to make sure we’re following safeguarding best practice and that you’re supported throughout the process by someone who knows your journey.

I am 13+ submitting my own changemaker story

Name

Role / Relationship to the young person

Preferred Contact number

Organisation or school name (if applicable)

Name of young person or team

Osian Davies

Date of Birth

2009-03-30

If you are between 13 and 18 years old, please download this form, have your legal guardian fill it and then upload here.

8307

Location (city or town)

Swansea

School or community group name

Ysgol Gyfun Gwyr

Category of story

Sport & Inclusion

Title

From Feeling Invisible to Helping Others Shine

Tell us your changemaking story.

When I was younger, I often felt that boys who weren't the biggest, loudest or best at sport could easily become invisible. As someone who was quite small and slim, I experienced those challenges myself and learned how much confidence can be affected when you don't feel you belong. As I've grown older, I've become more aware of the pressures younger boys face and have tried to be someone they can approach for advice, encouragement or simply someone to listen. Coaching young footballers has given me that opportunity. While I enjoy helping them improve their football skills, what matters most is helping them develop confidence, resilience and kindness. One young player I coach struggled with confidence and feeling excluded. Supporting him on and off the pitch showed me how powerful it is when a young person feels seen, valued and understood.

How do you hope your story will inspire others?

I hope my story inspires other young people to realise that they don't have to be defined by just one part of who they are. For a long time, many people knew me simply as a footballer. I wanted to show that young people don't have to fit into one category, so I began entering Welsh-language competitions and Eisteddfod events. I have been fortunate enough to win my school's Chair competition and achieve several first and second places in competitions across Wales. I hope this encourages others to pursue their own interests with confidence, even if they fall outside what others might expect. I also hope that being open about my diagnosis of Chiari malformation and syringomyelia, and my upcoming decompression surgery, shows that personal challenges do not have to stop you from supporting others or striving towards your goals. While this has been difficult at times, it has strengthened my belief in the importance of community, encouragement and resilience. Above all, I hope my story reminds people that small acts of kindness and encouragement can make a lasting difference. My goal is to help younger people feel seen, valued and supported. Whether through coaching, mentoring or leading by example, I want to create environments where young people can build confidence, develop positive values and believe in themselves.

Who else is collaborating with you on this?

I have been fortunate to work with a number of people and organisations who have helped shape my journey. Through my role as an FAW Youth Ambassador, I have developed a greater understanding of inclusion in football and the importance of creating opportunities for everyone, including girls, disabled players and young people with additional learning needs. My football coaches and club have trusted me with coaching younger players, giving me the opportunity to develop as both a leader and a mentor. My school has also played an important role by encouraging me to take on leadership responsibilities and supporting me to grow in confidence. Through my Welsh teachers and involvement in Eisteddfod competitions, I have learned the importance of stepping outside my comfort zone and embracing different interests. Most importantly, the young people I coach have been my greatest collaborators. Every conversation and every training session reminds me that building confidence, showing kindness and making people feel valued is something we achieve together.

I confirm that all information submitted is accurate and that I have obtained all necessary consents for participation and media use.

1

I understand that selected stories may be featured in the UK Changemaker Showcase and that Ashoka UK may contact me regarding next steps.

1

I understand that this is not a competition but a celebration of youth leadership and changemaking.

1