A WALLYFORD teenager is set to make her dreams become a reality after joining Street League, which uses the power of sport to help young people across the country get into education, training and employment.
Shakira Law, 16, took part in the organisation’s East Lothian programme, based at J&L Fitness and Boxing Club in Musselburgh, enjoying a variety of fitness activities including circuit workouts, cardio and weight training, and boxing.
A spokesperson for Edinburgh, UK – Street League said that Shakira had found the last few years to be “a rollercoaster of emotions” but she was now looking towards her future after the Covid-19 pandemic, with her ultimate goal to join the British Army’s bomb disposal team.
“The country was in lockdown during her final year of school and she felt she wasn’t achieving anything being stuck at home,” the spokesperson said.
“Shakira aspired to create a career in the STEM field and, when she heard about Street League, she decided to join so she could keep fit whilst looking for a job or college course to help her move towards her goals.
“After being in and out of lockdowns and dealing with isolation, Shakira was struggling with her confidence levels and found it extremely difficult to speak in a group. Now, with the help of Street League, she is less shy and more comfortable speaking up.
“Shakira credits the staff at Street League for this improvement as they create a fun and welcoming environment that promotes teamwork and self-advocacy.”
Photo: Malcolm Cochrane Photography
Street League has helped her secure a place to study electrical engineering at Edinburgh College in the autumn.
The spokesperson said: “With such strong ambitions and work ethic, the staff at Street League are positive that Shakira will make her dreams a reality and her newfound confidence will help her overcome any obstacles she may face.”
Shakira, a former pupil of Musselburgh Grammar School, said: “My advice for other young people in my area is to trust the process. Respect the staff and other young people around you, and you will get all the help you need.”
Photo: Malcolm Cochrane Photography
Street League says it is “committed to minimising the detrimental and long-term impact” of the pandemic on young people who are leaving school, looking for work and in the very first stages of their career. This work is made possible thanks to support from key funders such as People’s Postcode Lottery and their players.
Based throughout the UK, the organisation seeks to create opportunities and personal development by providing free sports and fitness classes, skills building, CV support and one-to-one career guidance.
Street League also wants to encourage more young women to follow their career goals and break down barriers, and is also working to increase female participation in physical fitness and sport.
Dougie Stevenson, CEO of Street League, said: “We’re still seeing a lack of representation of females across key industries and workforces, and in sports, a huge percentage of young women are missing out on the incredible physical and mental benefits of exercise and the enjoyment of sports. We must all do better to prevent women and girls from missing out.”
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