This is a sponsored article with the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games to shine a light on inspiring young people in the West Midlands.

With the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games just around the corner, there has never been a better time to get excited, inspired, and involved with one of the biggest events the West Midlands has ever seen.

Birmingham is one of the youngest cities in Europe, and the city and region is bursting with talented, dedicated and selfless individuals that are doing incredible things to make their community proud. And these are the people that Birmingham 2022 is shining a spotlight on…

If you’re looking for inspiration on how to make a difference in your local community, then look no further than Birmingham’s own Hattie D’Souza, the co-founder of homeless charity Let's Feed Brum.

Hattie and her volunteer-led team strive to ensure that those who are homeless are not left hungry by providing them with food, drinks, and essential supplies. However, Hattie also provides one other essential lifeline: genuine friendship.

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“Birmingham actually had a huge homeless population, more than those sleeping rough, there were loads of people who were hidden homeless,” says Hattie.

“A lot of people who were staying in hostels, people who were sofa-surfing, staying in hotels.”

Hattie’s selfless work has become a surefire inspiration to not only those close to her, but to locals in and around Birmingham.

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Her charitable efforts have played a huge role in ending the stigma surrounding homelessness. And what makes Hattie and her charity stand out is the level of approachability and genuine care she and fellow volunteers have towards people in the community.

“Every single person is so willing to give up their time and I think that’s just a testament to this region and its people,” she states.

Hattie is, of course, not alone in this sentiment.

If the last year has taught us anything, it’s that we are stronger when we pull together.

And if Hattie’s story has inspired you to get more involved in your community or to be part of something special in your city, you could apply to be a volunteer at Birmingham 2022 and join the Commonwealth Collective. The Commonwealth Collective will be made up of over 13,000 spirited, dedicated, and dynamic volunteers that will come together to help deliver the biggest sporting and cultural event the West Midlands has ever seen.

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Volunteering at the Commonwealth Games will give you the chance to learn new skills, meet new people and ultimately, make your mark on your city.

With a wide range of roles available across the Games, there’s an opportunity for everyone. And no formal experience is needed to apply.

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Applications to volunteer at Birmingham 2022 are now open. The process is simple, and takes around 20 minutes. Just head to Birmingham 2022 where you will be directed to an application form. Enter your personal details, choose which areas you’d like to volunteer in, and add any skills and qualifications you have, although you don’t need any specific experience to apply.

Volunteering at Birmingham 2022 will be a once in a lifetime chance to celebrate and represent your city, and to make memories that will last a lifetime.

And if you’d like to learn more about Hattie and her incredible team, check out the Let’s Feed Brum website HERE.

Make the West Midlands proud!
Apply to volunteer at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games HERE.

Featured image credit: Birmingham 2022

Spotlight You: Founder of Birmingham homeless charity on the importance of offering friendship as well as food