Many years ago I watched a film called Saving Private Ryan.  Released in the 1998, it was considered one of the greatest war films ever made; it was nominated for eleven Academy Awards (it won five), was Best Picture and Director at the Golden Globe Awards and grossed more than $480 million worldwide.   It was based loosely on the story of the Willard brothers, who were four American brothers that served in the military during World War 11. In the movie, Private First Class James Ryan is a paratrooper in the army and one of four sons of the Ryan family.  Tragically, his three brothers were killed in action leaving him the only surviving child of his mother.  After learning that Ryan’s brothers are dead, General Captain Marshall of the…

Just under ten years ago, I retrained to be a teacher. At that time, the Government were promoting the “Every Child Matters” agenda. For every lesson that you taught, you had to consider what the need of the child was and how you were going to meet it (Being healthy, Staying healthy, Enjoy and Achieve, Making a positive contribution). At the time, this resonated with me and continues to be the driving force in my career today. There are many reasons why I am a real champion for the work of Freedom 2. Along with being married to the amazing, inspirational and pioneering founder of the charity, it is the fact that all individuals are valued and invested in. Although, “For the One” is the name of their Ambassador programme,…

  I have really enjoyed watching Freedom 2 emerge and develop over the last few years. The passion the organisation shows in giving a voice to young girls who have, or who are at the risk of exploitation, is invaluable. So many of the younger generation have been lost to trafficking, abuse, trauma and neglect. I want to write today about how these same values that are held by Freedom 2 reflect my story. I had a wonderful childhood with loving parents and a secure home. At the tender age of 23 I met the most beautiful woman, both inside and out. The adventure has lasted for 17 years, so far. They have been filled with ups and downs. One of the biggest disappointments we experienced came through miscarriage and…

  Being Present in Relationships The time we have in life is so limited. We have to balance family, friends, careers, personal wellbeing and how we act as a citizen in the world. I work in the charity sector supporting exploited and marginalised people groups. I tend to give my all to my job, going above and beyond to support those in need as much as I can. However… I have been challenging this approach recently. My motivation to commit my time to assisting those most vulnerable in society has not reduced in the slightness. Rather I think it is one of the best things we can devote our time, money and energy to. I have just been thinking about why charities exist. I believe if community functioned effectively -…

    I feel so privileged to have been asked to write an article for Freedom 2’s blog ‘For the 1’,  which is a series of blogs aiming to empower each and every one of us to inspire and help others. [Image: Katie Warman Design] “We can’t help everyone but everyone can help someone” Ronald Reagan. I love this saying because it’s so true. If everyone helped make just one person’s day a little less overwhelming, a little easier or a little happier, think about how many clearer heads, lighter shoulders and bigger smiles the world would have! With the blog theme focusing on how we can help others, I have decided to share 5 ‘helpful hashtags’ that I plan to focus my social media (and life!) around this year.…