October 16, 2026
Harrison Foundation celebrates life-changing achievements at Foundation of Light’s 25th anniversary awards
The Harrison Foundation celebrated the achievements of young people across the North East by sponsoring the Foundation of Light’s 25th Anniversary Gala Awards Dinner this month, recognising the charity’s remarkable contribution to changing lives.
The special event brought together supporters, partners and inspirational individuals to celebrate 25 years of the Foundation of Light, with awards recognising outstanding achievements in education, employability, sport and wellbeing.
The evening was sponsored by the Harrison Centre for Social Mobility, reflecting the successful partnership between the Harrison Foundation and Foundation of Light, which began in 2017, and their shared commitment to helping young people overcome barriers and fulfil their potential.
Among those recognised was 18-year-old Chloe Constable, whose inspiring journey through the Youth Employment Hub at the Harrison Centre demonstrates the life-changing impact of providing young people with the right support and opportunities.
When Chloe first joined the programme, she was struggling with anxiety, lacked confidence and had little idea of the career path she wanted to pursue.
Working with Foundation of Light employability coaches at the Harrison Centre, she began developing practical skills, improving her CV and preparing for interviews. Taking part in group projects also helped her grow in confidence and become an increasingly active member of the group.
Her transformation was particularly evident when she began encouraging and supporting other young people, having initially struggled to recognise her own abilities.
Chloe went on to complete a four-week placement with B&M, receiving excellent feedback, followed by two weeks at the Job Centre, where she gained valuable workplace experience and insight into civil service careers.
Her achievements were recognised with a laptop to support her job search, which she immediately put to use, successfully applying for an apprenticeship with Hays Travel.
Following the positive impression she made during her work experience, Chloe was also offered a position as an Admin Officer with the Department for Work and Pensions.
Her progress was celebrated with a Wear Skilled award at the anniversary dinner, presented by Harrison Foundation Trustee Daniel Harrison MBE.
Daniel said: “Chloe’s journey is a fantastic example of what we are working to achieve through the Harrison Centre for Social Mobility. Seeing her develop from someone who lacked confidence into a young person with the skills, ambition and belief to pursue a career is incredibly rewarding.
“Our partnership with the Foundation of Light is about giving young people opportunities they might otherwise struggle to access. Chloe’s achievements show why that investment matters, and we are delighted to celebrate her success.”
Since 2017, the Harrison Foundation has worked closely with the Foundation of Light to help tackle barriers to social mobility, supporting initiatives that equip young people with the confidence, skills and experience needed to progress into education, training and employment.
Through the Harrison Centre for Social Mobility, the partnership continues to create opportunities for young people across the region, helping them develop their abilities and take positive steps towards their futures.
The anniversary awards provided an opportunity to celebrate the Foundation of Light’s achievements over the past 25 years, while highlighting the importance of partnerships that deliver meaningful, lasting change.
Chloe’s success is a powerful reminder of why investing in young people matters and the difference that opportunity, encouragement and belief can make.