Compassionate changemakers lead with purpose at Small Heath Leadership Academy

First Give is a UK-based charity programme designed to inspire and equip secondary school pupils to make a positive difference in their communities through social action. Working in groups, pupils research a social issue, engage with local charities, and organise activities like fundraising, awareness campaigns, or volunteering. Each team then delivers a presentation at the finals to illustrate the actions they have taken, with the winners receiving a £1,000 grant for their chosen charity. The school has been running the First Give initiative for four years, with pupils in Years 8 through to 11 all taking part over the course of the programme.

This year’s cohort of Year 8 pupils reflected on the First Give experience, saying: "I loved being able to work with my friends and help to raise money for my charity."

"I learned so much about the problems some people live with. It was great being able to help."

During the final, the atmosphere was filled with excitement and pride as pupils took to the stage to deliver their final presentations – confident, articulate and ready to shine after weeks of preparation. It was a celebration of the power of youth-led action, where pupils demonstrated creativity, compassion and a strong sense of responsibility.

Each Year 8 form presented a unique and compelling social action project, reflecting a deep understanding of local and global issues. One group delivered a powerful presentation focused on alleviating poverty, combining inspiring words with excellent teamwork and demonstrating how young people can lead meaningful change. Another form impressed the judging panel with their confidence and clarity, presenting compelling ideas that showcased true leadership in action. A further group focused on supporting a local food bank, exhibiting a strong commitment to the school’s STAR value of Service. The final team delivered a thoughtful presentation focused on ‘Bringing Hope’, highlighting the positive impact their kindness and compassion can have on the local community.

The occasion was made even more special by the presence of distinguished guest judges, including the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Zafar Iqbal MBE, Councillor for Bordesley Green, Raqeeb Aziz, and the school’s Regional Director and Executive Principal, Enass Al-Ani. Their attendance added prestige to the celebration and reinforced the importance of the pupils’ work as they championed these vital social causes with passion and purpose.

The judges followed each presentation with thoughtful and challenging questions, with the Lord Mayor congratulating the pupils on their commitment and dedication to their causes. After careful deliberation, form 8E were announced as the winners of the First Give competition. Their powerful presentation and outstanding commitment to supporting the charity Islamic Relief left a lasting impression on the judges and exemplified the purpose of the programme.

Small Heath Leadership Academy’s Assistant Principal, Ashley Dye, who organised the project, said: "First Give enabled our pupils to fully represent the STAR values of Service and Teamwork. They stepped well out of their comfort zones, presenting to a huge room full of people – including some very prominent and important guests. I don't think they'll ever forget the occasion and the process leading up to it. Congratulations to all participants for their outstanding efforts and dedication to creating a better future."

Yasmin Manzoor, Principal at Small Heath Leadership Academy, added:

“Our pupils demonstrated remarkable maturity and confidence as they took on real-world issues with compassion and determination. I am incredibly proud seeing how they have grown through this experience and embraced their responsibility as young leaders. Through meaningful social action, they are leading with purpose and creating positive change within their communities.”