Ex-Islington world champ Courtenay backing Powerday mental health work
October 9, 2021 | by Matt Halfpenny
Former Islington ABC boxer turned professional World Champion Shannon Courtenay has become an ambassador for the Powerday Foundation, which supports several amateur boxing clubs across London.
Focusing on boxing, rugby and young people, the foundation brings together all the charitable activities delivered by leading, family-owned waste management business, Powerday.
The company works with local clubs, schools, communities, sporting and local authorities to improve facilities, equipment, confidence, skills and knowledge.
Over the last four years, the Powerday Foundation has delivered more than £12.5m of new investment to over 60 boxing clubs and communities in London, with London Boxing, Dale Youth, Earlsfield, Repton and Powerday Hooks among those to benefit.
Courtenay, the WBA bantamweight champion and an England Boxing National Elite Championships semi-finalist in 2018, will focus on a drive to improve mental health and prevent suicide in the capital.
It follows on from the successful ambassador partnership between the Foundation and fellow boxer Joshua Buatsi last year.
“I am delighted to be joining the Powerday Foundation which has provided so much support to London’s boxing scene over the years,” said Courtenay, who has won seven of her first eight professional bouts. “Through its incredible investments, so many people in the capital have been able to benefit from the life skills and fitness that boxing offers.
“I am particularly looking forward to supporting its new initiatives to remove the stigma of mental health, which sadly affects boxers of all ages.
“We have all been under immense pressure the last 18 months and the work we will do through the Foundation will provide help and advice to people who need it most, offering them hope and sight of a bright future.”
Michael Crossan, Chairman of Powerday and the Powerday Foundation, added: “I am absolutely delighted to have Shannon as an ambassador to the foundation, as prevention of poor mental health is something that we can all help with.
“Frighteningly, it is estimated that one in six people in the past week experienced a common mental health problem. The foundation is looking forward to working with Shannon to ensure as many Londoners as possible are aware that support and advice is available to improve mental well-being, which is undoubtedly as important as physical health.”
For more information about the Powerday Foundation, click here.
