The West Ham United Foundation has announced that Olympic medallist, former world champion javelin thrower and leading children’s advocate Fatima Whitbread has joined the charitable arm of West Ham United FC as an ambassador.
One of Britain’s most celebrated athletes, Fatima has built an inspirational legacy. Drawing on her own experiences growing up in the care system, she has become a passionate champion for vulnerable children and young people, dedicating her time and platform to driving positive change across communities.
As a West Ham United Foundation Ambassador, Fatima will support and champion the Foundation’s work with children, young people and communities across east London, Essex and beyond. Her advocacy, lived experience and commitment to improving opportunities for those facing challenges closely align with the Foundation’s mission to empower individuals through education, employment, health, wellbeing and community engagement.
Through Fatima’s UK Campaign, she works tirelessly to improve outcomes for children and young people in care by bringing together organisations across mental health, education, housing and wider support services. The campaign collaborates with a broad network of partners, including fostering organisations, probation services, county lines prevention programmes and the National Fostering Network, helping to create pathways towards independent, sustainable futures for young people.
Speaking about her new role, Fatima Whitbread said:
“I’m delighted to have been invited to become an Ambassador for the West Ham United Foundation.
“At Fatima’s UK Campaign, we are proud to collaborate with an organisation so deeply committed to improving the lives of children and young people, particularly those facing disadvantage.
“Our values are closely aligned creating opportunity, building confidence, and supporting pathways into education, employment, and wellbeing.
“Together, through sport, community engagement, and Action Hubs, we can reach and inspire more young people to feel seen, supported, and able to thrive.
“Every child matters.”
Joseph Lyons, Chief Executive Officer of the West Ham United Foundation, added:
“We are incredibly proud to welcome Fatima as an Ambassador for the West Ham United Foundation.
“Fatima’s story is one of resilience, determination and a lifelong commitment to helping others. Through her work with Fatima’s UK Campaign, she has become a powerful voice for children and young people who often face significant barriers, using both her lived experience and influence to drive meaningful change.
“At the Foundation, we believe every young person deserves the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their background or circumstances. Fatima shares that belief wholeheartedly, and her passion for creating better futures for vulnerable young people makes her natural fit for our organisation.”
The West Ham United Foundation is the official charity of West Ham United, delivering more than 35 initiatives, to more than 60,000 people, across East London, Essex and internationally to inspire better futures and create life-changing opportunities for individuals, families and communities.
Through programmes spanning Football Development, Community Sport, Health and Wellbeing, Youth Engagement, Education and Employability, the Foundation creates positive and lasting change where it is needed most. At the heart of the Foundation’s work is The Foundry, its purpose-built £5m community hub in Newham. Reflecting the Club’s commitment to its community, The Foundry is where opportunity begins – providing a safe, inclusive and welcoming space where people can access support, build connections, develop skills and unlock their potential.
Find out more about the West Ham United Foundation by visiting: https://www.whufc.com/en/the-club/community/foundation
