Rob Green
Robert’s early family life was turbulent. His
parents argued a lot and as a result Robert grew up finding it
difficult to control his own anger. He struggled at school but
excelled at sport.
His parents praised him for his sporting
prowess and in his young mind, he felt that he was helping them not
to argue. Robert was very proud when he left school with a GCSE ‘A’
grade for sports.
At college, disaster struck when Robert
sustained a knee injury. His sporting future was in tatters and he
was heartbroken and lost. He dropped out of college and his anger
returned. He felt his parents would be disappointed in him and felt
life was unfair. Seeking solace in alcohol, he was at a very low
point and could see no future for himself.
Eventually, the Careers service suggested
Robert approach The Prince’s Trust and he joined the Team programme
in early 2009. For the first time Robert had a purpose in life
other than sport and he embraced the opportunity, working well as a
team, making friends and growing in confidence every day.
Robert then progressed to a Get into Football
programme in Cardiff, which enabled him to combine his love of
sport with employment skills training. Due to his knee injury, he
took on a coaching role, which he adored. Robert’s self-esteem grew
hugely and his anger issues subsided.
Robert was unemployed, however had a growing
interest in martial arts. He decided to combine this interest with
the possibility of self-employment and embarked on The Prince’s
Trust Enterprise Programme in September 2010. Robert then set up a
business as a mixed martial arts (MMA) merchandiser. Although a
fledgling business at the moment, Robert is enthusiastic about the
future and proud of what he has achieved.
Support from The Prince’s Trust gave Robert
the self-belief he needed and he is always keen to share that
belief and help others. He gives up his spare time to be a
Young Ambassador for The Trust, helping to raise funds and
encourage other young people who want to turn their lives around -
speaking at events and to other young people. He has even spoken at
events attended by HRH The Prince of Wales.
Robert always speaks positively and
confidently whether he is talking to high profile supporters,
journalists or young people. He is a natural ambassador for The
Prince’s Trust and his battle with his own barriers is an
inspiration to others who are in turn motivated by his energy and
enthusiasm.
Robert said,
Without the support of The Trust I dread to
think where I would be today. Two years ago I was drinking to
excess with nowhere to turn, full of anger and regret. Now, I have
an exciting future, fantastic support and I am happy. I have
achieved so much more than I ever could have expected.
Champions
We would like to acknowledge the individuals or organisations
who have played a key role in helping this young person achieve
success through their Prince’s Trust programme.
- Alison Brown, Programme Manager, The
Prince’s Trust
- Leanne Saunders, Team Leader, The
Prince’s Trust
- Kelly Rowland, Assistant Team Leader, The Prince’s Trust