Coventry man is still left speechless after winning a King's Trust Award
Harry has been named Achiever of the Year for his work in outdoor education services
Harry, 23, from Coventry, has won a prestigious Kings Trust Award.
Harry scooped the national Homesense Young Achiever Award, which recognises a young person who has overcome substantial barriers, to build a more stable and fulfilling life, by securing employment.
Alongside other award winners, Harry also attended a reception at Buckingham Palace to meet His Majesty The King, Founder of The King’s Trust, who congratulated their achievements.
The Awards shines a light on the inspirational stories of young people, volunteers and those who support their wider communities.
Many of the winners have overcome significant barriers to transform their lives and build brighter futures for themselves and their communities.
Harry has overcome immense challenges in his life, he had a difficult childhood which included losing his mum at a young age, getting in trouble with the police, and homelessness.
Upon reflection, Harry said: "“My life started to unravel after my mum died. I rarely attended school and had no routine.
"I started to spend less time at home and instead started going down the wrong path.”
Harry's mental health hit rock bottom, resulting in him being hospitalised and after leaving hospital, he found himself homeless and sofa surfing.
It was during his period, after seeking support from local homelessness charity St Basil’s, that Harry found out about The King’s Trust Get Started in Outdoor Leadership programme.
The programme was delivered in partnership with Coventry Outdoors Education and Adventure Service.
“Getting involved with the Coventry Outdoors team through The King’s Trust programme saved my life.
“I was a bit hesitant when I found out about the course, I wasn’t socialising with others and didn’t feel comfortable meeting a group of new people.
"I was feeling stressed about my situation and definitely didn’t think I had the confidence to learn new skills or lead anything!
"However, I secretly liked the idea of being outdoors in nature at Coombe Abbey, where the programme was taking place.
“Being near the lakes and listening to the birds would offer a sense of calm and time to think.
"I was at a point in my life where I recognised I had to do something to help my situation. I had nothing to lose.”
Harry excelled in the course and after gaining ten new qualifications, he applied and successfully secured a position after an interview.
Since, Harry has continued his role within outdoor education services and created a brighter future for himself.
Harry said he is still in a sense of shock upon hearing he won the Homesense Young Achiever award: “Taking part in The King’s Trust programme was a turning point in my life.
"It gave me the confidence to step out of my comfort zone, connect with others, and build the skills I needed to pursue my dream career.
"I’ve gone from feeling lost to securing a sustainable job, and now I’m passionate about inspiring other young people.
"I understand the challenges they face and want to be part of the system that helps them succeed.”