Young man from Derby wins prestigious King's Trust Award

The King’s Trust and TK Maxx Awards recognise young people who have succeeded against the odds, improved their chances in life and had a positive impact on their local community. Alanscooped the NatWest Enterprise Award which recognises a young person who has overcome barriers to create their own sustainable business or social enterprise.

After losing his previous job in 2022, Alan didn’t believe his business, Stitched by Alan, was something he could pursue full-time to earn a living. While unemployed Alan received support from his local job centre and was informed about The King’s Trust.

Alan used the grant to buy embroidery equipment, and was also provided with a mentor, business planning advice and support to complete his business plan. Now, he has moved into his own first professional studio space to provide him with the freedom to continue to expand his business.

On winning the NatWest Enterprise Award, Alan said: “I honestly can’t believe that I’m the ‘England NatWest Enterprise Award Winner’. It was an honour to be nominated, and I never thought I would win.

“This whole process has made me feel reflective about how far I’ve come and I’m starting to feel so proud of myself. I’m my own worst critic and winning this award is just what I needed to continue to push myself and grow.

“When I reflect on young Alan, who always enjoyed art but never knew how he could make a career from drawing animals, I wish I could tell him that one day, you’ll be drawing with thread to make hundreds of people happy. You’ll win an award for doing what you love.

“Thank you, Lizzie, for nominating me for this award and the ongoing support. The past year has been so powerful for me, personally. Becoming a Young Ambassador for The Trust and having the opportunity to share my journey with others has been so rewarding for me and allowed me to grow as a person. It’s allowed me to be proud of who I am, where I’ve come from and what I have achieved.”

Christy Smithers, from NatWest, presented Alan with his award and said: “We would like to offer our congratulations to Alan on this well-deserved award. His determination in overcoming barriers to build a sustainable business is inspiring, and we would like to wish him every success as he continues to grow, innovate, and make a lasting positive impact in the years ahead.”

Now Alan is in with a chance to become a National King’s Trust Award winner at a very special event in May 2026. A King’s Trust Celebrationin partnership with TK Maxx will spotlight winners from across the UK. Held at the iconic Royal Albert Hall, this special evening will bring music, comedy, awards, and unforgettable performances together. The night will celebrate the courage, creativity, and achievements of young people supported by The King’s Trust in the UK and around the world.

Youth charity The King’s Trust gives young people the skills and confidence to get their lives on track. Three in four young people helped by The King’s Trust in the past five years have moved into work, training or education. With almost a million young people not in work, education or training, the Trust is committed to ending youth unemployment so that every young person has the opportunity to succeed.