Enact’s story has always been rooted in people — in the young people, families, staff, volunteers and wider community who have shaped, built, and grown it over the years.
In the early days, James led the team for over a decade, helping to lay strong foundations. Reflecting on his time with Enact, James shared:
“I look on my time with Enact very fondly, with a healthy pride at what we achieved together, and great humility when I think of the amazing people I had the privilege to know.”A young person once described Enact as a “chaotic family.” James recalled:“He meant it kindly! Chaotic because there was always more going on than we had time and resources for – our ambitions were bigger than the budget. But family, because we were figuring it out together as a community. The most important thing was seeing the Enact family grow — children becoming young people, young people becoming adults, volunteering, families supporting one another, and celebrating successes together.”
In 2019, James stepped down as Team Lead, and Enact entered a new chapter, building on these foundations while evolving to meet new challenges and opportunities. Under new leadership, Enact has continued to grow and thrive, widening its reach, deepening its impact, and adapting to meet the changing needs of the young people and families we serve.
When the pandemic hit, just a year after this transition, Enact remained strong. The team found creative ways to stay connected, support families and young people, and uphold the values that have always sat at the heart of the charity. As James reflected during one of our conversations in that period:
“Everyone needed kindness and to know they have a place where they are welcomed, valued, can make a contribution and be helped. That is what makes Enact stand out.”
Even today, James remains connected to Enact and the wider community. At our 2024 Christmas celebration, James joined the team once again and shared his reflections afterwards:
“It was wonderful to see the community together and so happy. The young people seemed so integrated, and the parents so comfortable together. I loved seeing people staying in community — Gul and Chima of particular note, but also Alex, Emmanuel, Aaron, Melissa and Ella too. Really wonderful.”
Today, Enact continues to flourish. We remain focused on creating safe, trusted spaces where young people can grow in confidence, build resilience, and feel part of a strong and caring community. The journey continues, always rooted in the same values that have carried us through every chapter: connection, kindness, ambition, and a belief that every young person deserves the chance to thrive.
