I am a former academy footballer on a mission to protect children from the grooming, exploitation, and neglect that I, and many others like me, suffered in the world of sport. My journey has taken me from the pitch to the world of fashion and entrepreneurship, and it's one I'm committed to sharing with others to inspire change.Football CareerMy love for football ignited at the tender age of 7 when I joined Wimbledon FC, a then Premier League club. At 14, I achieved a milestone by being purchased for a then-record fee to join Fulham FC. Additionally, I had the honor of representing the Welsh national team from U14 to U21. However, my promising football career was abruptly cut short due to a double knee surgery. This devastating setback led to my football club dropping me, marking a brutal rejection that deeply impacted my late teens and early adulthood.A New PathWith no academic qualifications or support from my former football club, I found myself at the local job center, uncertain about my future. It was there that I stumbled upon an internship opportunity at the renowned fashion brand, Burberry. This internship marked the beginning of a remarkable transformation in my life.Rise at BurberryStarting as an intern, I dedicated myself to learning and excelling in the fashion industry. Over time, I progressed to a permanent position within the Design & Development team. It was during this period that I discovered my newfound passion for garments and nurtured the dream of launching my own brand.Certified Sports - Championing the OverlookedIn 2018, I founded Certified Sports, a brand with a mission to champion the overlooked and become the voice of the underrated. Our brand is not just about fashion; it's a platform for change. We use proceeds from our sales to challenge sporting organisations to do more for the people they represent. Our goal is to empower athletes and communities, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs are met.My journey from football to fashion and entrepreneurship, has been filled with challenges and setbacks. However, it's these experiences that have shaped me into the person I am today. I am committed to making a positive impact through Certified Sports and continuing to inspire others to pursue their dreams, no matter the obstacles they may face. Thank you for joining me on this incredible journey.