Remembering Kevin Hewson

I was very sorry to hear the news of Kevin Hewson’s death a few weeks ago on 22nd Feb.

I met Kevin when he applied to be a board member at youth charity Foyer Federation in 2014, enjoying the first of many fascinating conversations together on the topics of asset-based innovation and management.  Kevin had such an engaging mind for ideas, razor sharp in perception, always able to exchange wise insights.  While he made light of his professional experience from the world of banking, one never mistook his determination and ability to help good things happen.

I quickly realised that Kevin had a gift for seeing things that others missed.  Most of all, he could understand people’s potential as well as their challenges, and cared deeply about the impact that decisions made on people’s lives and work.  Those qualities made him a valuable trustee and friend.

I certainly benefited from Kevin's support during my final months at Foyer Federation, not least at my farewell party in 2015 from which the above photograph comes.   Kevin always took time to stay in touch afterwards.  He is someone who will remain in my heart with great affection and respect.

Room For Young People - Youth Housing Event at Aston University Conference Centre 16-17th April 2018

InspireChilli is supporting the Asset-based and International innovation focus at this Inspiring event in April (Youth Awards on 16th, main conference 17th).  See details below to book your tickets and/or nominate people for awards. 

Looking to develop an inspiring youth offer for social housing residents?

Passionate about working to unlock young people’s potential?

Determined to give young people a voice in their communities?

If you said yes to any of these questions, the ‘Room For Young People’ youth housing conference is for you…

About the conference and awards:

Hosted by Clarion Housing Group, Liverty and the Housing Association Youth Network (HAYN), housing providers will take over the Aston University Conference Centre on 17th April 2018.

‘Room for Young People’ aims to bring those focusing on young people in Housing, the Youth sector and commissioners together under one roof for the first time. 

With a focus on the journey of a young person, the conference will explore how through collaboration we can develop an inspiring youth offer that unlocks potential, extends opportunities and helps communities.

Highlights will include:

• Keynote speeches from Laura-Jane Rawlings, CEO of Youth Employment UK and Anisa Hagdidi, Founder and CEO of Beatfreeks

• Panel of experts including Tokunbo Ajasa-Oluwa (CEO of The Foyer Federation), Louise Cannon (Housing Lead for UnLtd) and Leads from Liverty and Clarion Housing Group.

• A Youth Inspiration Awards Ceremony on 16^th April  7pm – 10pm ( Award Categories include: Environmental, Intergenerational, Community Action, Youth Enterprise, Youth Arts, Young Ambassadors, Breakthrough Award – plus Inspiring Staff Award).

• Young social housing ambassadors from the Netherlands and England will present their ideas on a ‘Future-proof Community for Young People’

• Interactive workshops and panels covering  topics on developing your youth housing offer, collaboration and funding, and asset-based approaches

More information and Ticket Links:

Tickets can be booked using the links below…

Book Conference tickets (only £75) for 17th April:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/room-for-young-people-developing-an-inspiring-youth-offer-in-the-housing-sector-tickets-42894472522

Nominate young residents for the Youth Inspiration Awards, 16th April:

https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/HJMD73S

Book FREE tickets for the Youth Inspiration Awards, 16th April:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/room-for-young-people-youth-awards-night-tickets-42903601828

Accommodation and Travel:

Aston University Conference Centre is a 15 minute walk from Birmingham New Street Station and there is accommodation on site. If you want to book with the university please state that you are attending the conference to receive a discount: http://www.conferenceaston.co.uk/

For a copy of the conference flyer or other details, contact: For more information contact

futurescommunities@ myclarionhousing.com