The Golden Globe-winning, and Newham-raised, actor, speaks out against knife crime.

By Neandra Etienne

Actor Idris Elba, who went to school in Newham, has launched an anti-knife campaign Don’t Stop Your Future to inspire local
groups working for change. Launching his campaign he explained why: “I was incensed about the lack of care and attention that people were showing about knife crime”.

His initiative has won support from local groups. One of them, SCK Fitness Team, told Newham Voices that the campaign “is shedding light on the crises afflicting our communities, through supporting grassroots organisations, while Idris is also using his voice and platform to initiate positive change from within the system.”

In 2024 SCK Fitness Team is committing to making more noise through its own anti-knife crime campaign. “We will harness our growing platform and community trust. We aim to offer: more awareness and education on the harsh realities of carrying knives, providing long-term diversionary activities (such as free BJJ/Boxing classes) and mentoring young people who carry knives or previously had.

“We believe ‘knife crime’ is a public health problem, demanding a public health solution. And that’s why we open our doors to
under 21s in Newham, to give them somewhere to be, ultimately improving their mental and physical health. Through sports-based mentoring by our senior coaches, some have turned their lives around completely. As they grow braver, the desire to carry knives dissipates.”

Another group backing the Idris Elba campaign is Ayesha Youth Project who say the campaign aligns with their own mission to empower young people. In a statement Ayesha Youth Project said: “We wholeheartedly supports Idris Elba’s knife crime campaign. We are dedicated to deterring young people from crime by empowering them with essential life skills.”

“Through a range of programmes, including employability workshops, drug awareness initiatives, and our forthcoming anti-knife crime and conflict resolution workshops, we aim to address the root causes of crime.”

“The enthusiasm and interest displayed by young people are indicative of a collective commitment to building a safer community. As we embark on our first anti-knife crime workshop, we are optimistic about the positive impact it will have on equipping young individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to make informed and responsible choices.”

www.ayeshayouthproject.org – www.dsyf.com

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