Professor Chris Imafidon – The King’s Trust Brilliant Breakfast is more than a fundraising event, it’s a movement to transform the lives of young women. Usually scheduled for March every year, this initiative brings communities together to support The King’s Trust’s Women Supporting Women program, empowering women aged 11 to 30 to overcome barriers and seize opportunities. At the heart of this effort is Professor Chris Imafidon, a globally renowned educator and champion of The King’s Trust, whose passion for unlocking potential drives his commitment to this cause. His widely reported views on youth highlight the urgency of investing in young women, not as an act of charity but as a cornerstone of societal progress.
The Power of Practical Support
The funds raised through the Brilliant Breakfast provide young women with tangible tools for success. From training courses with employers to practice interviews, job opportunities, and grants for essentials like work clothes, childcare, or laptops, every donation makes a difference. For example, £10 can fund a budgeting session, while £250 can provide a laptop to open doors to education. In a post-pandemic world, where young women face soaring unemployment and mental health challenges, such support is critical. Professor Imafidon has emphasized that these are not handouts but lifelines, enabling young women to break free from cycles of poverty and exclusion.
A Champion’s Perspective
Professor Imafidon’s involvement lends immense credibility to the Brilliant Breakfast. As the chair of Excellence in Education, he has mentored countless young people, including his daughter, Dr. Anne-Marie Imafidon, MBE, founder of Stemettes. His philosophy that every child is a genius given the right tools aligns seamlessly with The King’s Trust’s mission. Imafidon’s advocacy for innovative learning systems, such as gamification, reflects the Trust’s focus on practical, confidence-building programs. His endorsement of the Brilliant Breakfast underscores its importance, framing young women as future leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators rather than victims of circumstance.
The Challenges Facing Youth
Today’s youth face unprecedented challenges, as widely reported in recent studies. Economic instability, worsened by the pandemic, has left many young women feeling isolated and hopeless. Unemployment rates for young people remain high, particularly for those from disadvantaged backgrounds who lack access to technology or career guidance. Mental health issues have also surged, with young women reporting elevated levels of anxiety and depression. Yet, as Imafidon often notes, these obstacles are not insurmountable. With targeted support, young women can thrive, and the Brilliant Breakfast is a powerful vehicle for delivering that support.
A Community-Driven Movement
What sets the Brilliant Breakfast apart is its accessibility. There’s no fee to host an event, and no minimum fundraising goal, making it easy for anyone to participate. Whether it’s a simple gathering at home or an elaborate spread at a local café, every breakfast contributes to the cause. This inclusivity embodies The King’s Trust’s ethos: change begins with community. As Imafidon has said, “Success is always sure if anyone follows simple instructions.” By hosting or donating, individuals become part of a collective effort to empower young women to achieve their dreams.
A Promise for the Future
In commending The King’s Trust, Professor Imafidon reminds us that supporting young women is an investment in our shared future. The Brilliant Breakfast is more than an event, it’s a promise to uplift those who need it most. As March 2025 approaches, let’s heed Imafidon’s call to action. Gather your community, host a breakfast, and raise funds to change lives. Together, we can ensure that every young woman has the opportunity to shine, proving that when we invest in youth, we build a brighter, more equitable world for all.
Kindly follow us on twitter:@AfricanVoice2
