2025 Shortlisted Nominee
Community Organisation Award: Race, Religion & Faith
Spark Inside’s Black Hero’s Journey (BHJ) is a groundbreaking coaching programme co-designed with young Black and Mixed Heritage men in prison, addressing critical gaps in support for this over-represented group. BHJ provides four in-prison workshops followed by one-to-one life coaching through custody and post-release, led by Black coaches. The programme fosters Black joy, community, and belonging, empowering participants to challenge stereotypes, reclaim identity, and build resilience. Spark Inside has transformed over 2,000 lives across 10 prisons with innovative life coaching, also working to shift prison culture and advocate for racial equity. BHJ’s unique, culturally sensitive approach has earned prestigious recognition, including Zurich’s 2024 Innovation in Diversity and Inclusion Award, and government funding to expand. Participants consistently report increased hope, self-worth, and practical skills to overcome barriers, making BHJ a vital and pioneering intervention within the UK criminal justice system.