ABOUT US
Empowering young people in London communities through grassroots sports.
History.
Youth Experience in Sport (YES) has a rich history rooted in the sporting traditions of East London, particularly in rowing. The charity's origins can be traced back to the aftermath of the 1986 abolishment of the Greater London Council, which led to a significant reduction in sports opportunities for young people in the area.
Founding and Early Years
YES was founded by Tony Mallin MBE, and members of the Lea Rowing Club in response to the void left by the Inner London Education Authority (ILEA), which had previously provided extensive sporting opportunities, including rowing, to young people in East London. The charity was officially registered on October 27, 1995, initially under the name East London Youth and Minorities Activities Limited.
Focus on Junior Rowing
In its early years, YES concentrated primarily on junior rowing activities at the Lea Rowing Club. This focus on rowing was particularly significant, as it continued a tradition that had previously produced notable athletes like Salih Hassan, the first Muslim to represent Great Britain in the Olympic Games in 1984.
Expansion Beyond Rowing
The charity maintained its sole focus on rowing until 2007. Recognising the broader need for sports opportunities in East London, particularly in Boxing, YES began to expand its offerings. This decision was driven by an awareness of the shortage of organised sports activities for youth in the area, and increase in youth crime and antisocial behaviour, and a desire to fulfil the charity's ultimate objective of empowering young people through sports.
Current Activities
Today, YES continues to provide vital financial support to sports clubs, youth centres, and sports charities across East London. The organisation's mission has evolved to create safe environments where young people can play, learn, and grow through various sporting activities. This expansion has allowed YES to impact a broader range of young people in London's most deprived boroughs, offering them opportunities to engage, develop, and be empowered through sports participation.