Meet Richard

What are your interests and hobbies?
I am into acting, music, basketball, handball and going to the gym

How long have you been coming to Lift?
Since 2017, it's been that long. I had a teacher at St Aloysius who got a leaflet. She spoke about Lift and the fact there was a gym here so I came along here with a friend and enjoyed it.

What do you do at Lift?
I have done parkour, gym, podcasts, cooking, Thriving Men's Project, social activities, police workshops, spoken word and writing music.

How has Lift helped you?
It has strengthened my skills and sharpened my tools - in the sense of the things you need to perform well. For example, going to the gym here helped me get fit and learn the skills that got me into the England under 19s handball team. I have played matches around England and have been to Denmark. From doing the podcasting I learnt interview skills that helped with my confidence and got me into a paid acting role in a film about young men's mental health. Nathan encouraged to audition for the role he had heard about and filmed me on his phone. I got the part (video below).

What is the most important thing you have learnt at Lift?
Use your time wisely. Utilise the opportunities that Lift provides. You can go a long way in your life.

What is the most fun you have ever had?
Doing the podcasts was fun as you learnt to speak freely, learn other people's views and get to know people. It was therapeutic.

What would you say to a young person that has never been here before?
Lift is a place where you can make lifetime friends and get opportunities to do bigger and better things. You can also take part in creative projects.

What do you hope to be doing in three years’ time?
Finish my degree in sports science. I have an audition coming up for a part in a BBC series, so I would like to get the main role. I would also like to get into theatre acting.

How is Lift helping you get there?
The podcasting is developing my vocal skills. Lift is a contact point for help anywhere along the journey. The youth workers are here to support in anything I want to do.