100% Engagement 100% referral rate 100% completion
PROOF OF POSSIBILITY
At Sportainment, our case studies spotlight the journeys of disadvantaged young people, from one-to-one interventions to school-wide programmes by re-engaging long-term NEETs, supporting students with complex needs, & empowering peer mentors.
We unlock pathways to education and employment, and deliver wraparound wellbeing support. Every programme we provide blends sport, creativity, and physical wellbeing.
We believe in early intervention and meeting young people before they need us most. By continuously collating data, feedback, and lived experience, we’re able to bespoke and evolve our services, ensuring every intervention is tailored, responsive, and rooted in what works.
Our model delivers exceptional results that ensure full-circle mentorship, lived-experience guidance, and long-term support
And we’re not stopping there. Together, we’re working to erase the term NEET and every other label that limits potential. We empower young people to define success on their own terms, turning their lived experiences into a legacy.
Case Study: Re-engaging At-Risk NEETs Across Crewe
In Crewe, we worked with a group of students identified by their teachers as high-risk, facing exclusion, reoffending, and long-term disengagement. Many were caregivers, neurodiverse, or struggling with complex barriers to education.
Our Approach
- Met face-to-face with each student to map wellbeing, education, and future pathways
- Co-created 33-point SMART Plans with realistic weekly goals and measuring feedback/success markers
- Delivered engaging, trauma-informed sessions to boost attendance, behaviour, and attainment
- Used creative methods to reignite interest in learning and re-engaged into STEM/EBACC curriculum
Impact
- Students reconnected with education and built trust through consistent support
- Schools saw improved engagement and reduced risk indicators
- Students now have clear, supported pathways forward built on their strengths, with dedicated mentors assigned and enhanced wellbeing support in place to ensure long-term success
- We were referred to the rest of the academy network, all with 40–50% FSM/SEN rates
- 100% student engagment
Case Study: Re-engaging Long-Term Absent Students in Dorset
We supported a group of Dorset-based students who had been out of school for over two years due to complex needs, including mental health challenges, SEN, and anxiety.
Our Approach
- Sourced schools better suited to each student’s individual needs
- Delivered a smooth, supported transition into education
- Provided full wellbeing support and out-of-hours tuition to help them catch up
- Created tailored plans to prepare them for English and Maths GCSE resits
Impact
- Students re-engaged with learning and rebuilt confidence
- Guardians reported high satisfaction and visible progress
- All students are now on track for GCSE success
- Long-term post-care is in place to ensure continuity and trust
- Each student now has a clear, ambitious pathway that fits their needs — without compromise
Case Study: 100 Students Empowered at London Academy
At a London-based academy with over 50% FSM and SEN rates, Sportainment met face-to-face with more than 100 students facing significant barriers to STEM and EBAC progression — including lack of work experience, guidance, and social capital.
Our Approach
- Met individually with students, caregivers, NEET-risk youth, and neurodiverse individuals
- Pinpointed tuition and work experience needs for every student
- Created bespoke SMART Plans tailored to each learner’s goals and challenges
- Delivered weekly sessions focused on wellbeing, mental health, and career readiness
Impact
- Students gained targeted academic support and real-world exposure
- Families and caregivers were actively engaged in the journey
- Barriers to progression were addressed through trauma-informed, inclusive mentoring
- Every student received a pathway forward — built on talent, not circumstance
- Sportainment recommended to all other schools within academy and year groups
- 99% student engagement
Case Study: 50 Student Leaders Empowering Peers (INNOVEX)
We trained 50 key stage 4 & 5 Berkshire-based students from disadvantaged backgrounds to become peer mentors and leaders within their schools and local communities over a 3 month period (unlimited post-programme support).
How It Works
- Delivered by industry leaders, wellbeing experts, and lived-experience mentors
- Trauma-informed, inclusive training focused on mentoring, leadership, and DEI
- Global career pathways and ambassador roles were successfully introduced
- Mentors remain in place for as long as each young leader needs support
- Delivered project-based, guided experiences that simulate real-life scenarios, followed by students applying those skills in actual workplace and community settings
Impact
- Students became confident, responsible changemakers
- Schools saw stronger peer support and improved inclusion, attendance, attainment & behavior
- Students accessed global leadership opportunities
- 100% engagement and programme completion
Case Study: J the Boxer Trained for Purpose. Built for Greatness.
J grew up in a deprived area of London, where challenges were constant and expectations were low. His school experience was tough; teachers often viewed him through a lens of stereotypes, assuming his path would mirror others before him.
But J defied those expectations. He became the first in his family to graduate from university a milestone made even more powerful by the fact that many had advised him not to pursue it. They didn’t see his potential. But he did. And so did Sportainment.
Our Approach
- Delivered personalised mentoring and training rooted in J’s passion for boxing
- Uncovered the mindset of a true athlete: Focused, Hardworking, Relentless, Resilient
- Supported his mental discipline, confidence, and daily routine
- Built a tailored plan around his challenges, interests, and personality
Impact
- Became an amateur boxer within 3 months
- Secured a sales role within 4 months (supported by Sportainment Industry mentors and in-job training)
- Top performer in his team from month one
- Received exceptional client reviews for his excellent customer service
- Mentors new boxers weekly
Why It Works Boxing taught J how to train for life. This mentality persists in his career, relationships, and future goals. We’re proud not just of his success, but of the way he lifts others as he rises.
FEEDBACK
“If you are looking for work; an employer seeking talent, or someone looking to break into their dream role, then I cannot emphasise enough how impactful and beneficial it is to have Shiv and Sportainment on your side.”
Case Study: Reclaiming Her Voice. Rebuilding Her Life.
Bee’s journey is one of extraordinary resilience, healing, and transformation. Arriving in the UK as a refugee, she faced domestic violence, homelessness, drug abuse, and severe mental health challenges. Through it all, one dream kept her going: she wanted to sing.
Our Approach
- Carried out a full wellbeing assessment
- Attended medical and hospital appointments by her side
- Rehoused her in a safe, secure home
- Prioritised safeguarding and long-term mental health
- Rebuilt her confidence and reminded her of her worth
- Refined her voice and nurtured her artistry
Impact
- Bee began to heal, emotionally, physically, and creatively
- Her voice returned stronger and more powerful than ever
- She now performs regularly at events across the country
- Referred others to Sportainment, amplifying her impact and legacy
- Proved that when you support the whole person, dreams soar
Why It Works Bee claimed her future. Every note and step is a testament to what’s possible when care, creativity, and courage come together.
Feedback
“Sportainment have helped completely change my life, from our first meeting. They always believed in me, even when I had some low moments and wanted to give up. They gave me space when I needed it, but they always checked in. I knew they were always there when I needed them. They helped structure my day, introduced me to safe social groups. I felt so safe after a long time. They helped me realise who I am and what I am capable of. I will never forget them.”
Case Study: Leon the Footballer From Foster Care to Semi Pro
All our dreamers undergo thorough assessments to identify and create roles that not only align with their unique skillsets and personalities but also allow them to pursue their passions through alternative pathways.
Leon’s journey was shaped by challenges from an early age. Growing up in the foster system, stability was rare, and opportunities felt out of reach. His love for football was undeniable, but without consistent support, the dream of playing professionally seemed distant.
Our Approach
From the moment we met Leon, we saw his passion, raw talent, and determination. We connected him with:
- A strong support system to help him develop on and off the pitch
- Scouts & Elite coaches & tailored training programmes
- Mentorship and wellbeing initiatives to build confidence and structure
- Essential funding for kit, travel, and training fees to remove financial barriers
Impact
- Within months, Leon was trialing for top academies and earning recognition from scouts
- Today, he plays as a semi-professional footballer with aspirations for the big leagues
- He also secured a sales role at a sports agency, where his talents extend beyond the pitch
- Leon referred two others to Sportainment, both of whom we successfully trained and placed within Sports
Feedback
“You lot didn’t just help me play football, you helped me build a life around it. I’ve got a job, I’m still training, that’s mad! Appreciate you always.”
Case Study: From Quiet Ambition to Youth Ambassador
Jo arrived at Sportainment as a young father earning below the national minimum wage. Despite his circumstances, there was a spark in Jo, rich in character, with a confidence that just needed space to grow. Having raised both himself and his younger sister who suffered from severe mental illness, Jo had developed a deep sense of empathy and resilience. He was full of ambition but lacked the direction to turn it into reality.
Our Approach
- Jo was referred to Sportainment and immediately placed into our Business and Leadership Training Course, where his natural talent as a performer shone through.
- By the second session, Jo sang in front of the entire group,
- He consistently aced all homework, attended every session, and completed the course with distinction.
- We enrolled Jo into our Career Readiness Programme, pairing him with industry mentors and conducting regular well-being check-ins
Impact
- Jo is on his way to secure his dream role in the sports industry, combining his passion, personality, and leadership skills.
- He gained confidence, clarity, and a renewed sense of purpose.
- Inspired by his journey, Jo chose to become a Youth Ambassador for Sportainment, mentoring others and giving back to the community that believed in him.
Feedback
“Sportainment saw in me more than I saw in myself. I’m so grateful I was recommended to speak to them. I’ve taken on all my training and decided to become a Youth Ambassador”
Case Study: K's Journey from Caregiver to a Tech Wizz (SPOR-X)
With no prior work experience, low confidence, and a lack of support, K had never imagined a life outside of his caregiving responsibilities. As the primary carer for his mother, his time was not his own. Financial constraints and the challenges of being neurodiverse made traditional career pathways feel out of reach.
Our Approach
But K had something powerful, passion. Despite the odds, he had spent years self-learning CAD and related technologies, becoming incredibly skilled without formal training.
When we met K, we saw the potential he couldn’t yet see in himself. We:
- Helped him build a portfolio that showcased his expertise
- Provided mentorship to boost his confidence and create better support at home
- Identified roles where his skills could add genuine value to a team
Over the course of a few months, we connected with companies that valued talent beyond conventional experience — and then, it happened.
Impact
- K was hired by an incredible organisation, where he could finally apply his knowledge in a professional setting
- His transformation wasn’t just about landing a job — it was about realising how incredible he truly is
- His self-belief flourished, and his passion had the space to thrive
- K’s journey reminded us that when nurtured, passion can carve a path where experience alone cannot
Feedback
"They stuck with me, making sure I was calm and prepared throughout the whole process, and they have been a continuous source of motivation. I can not thank them enough and would recommend to anyone! 100% stars when it comes to helping achieve dreams!"
Case Study: K's Journey from Caregiver to a Tech Wizz
Micky came to us with a history of offending, behavioural challenges, and extremely low school attendance. Traditional systems had written him off — but we saw something different. Beneath the surface was a spark: creative energy, raw potential, and a hunger for change.
Our Approach
We got to the root of Micky’s barriers and built a plan that worked for him:
- Reignited his confidence and motivation through trauma-informed mentoring
- Co-created a SMART plan to resit key exams and stay off the streets
- Introduced alternative learning methods and a tutor
- Assigned full-time mentorship to provide consistent support and accountability
- Explored career pathways in further education and creative industries
Impact
- Micky successfully resat his exams, proving what’s possible with the right support (he will pass!)
- He launched a flourishing fashion business, blending creativity with entrepreneurship
- His journey is now inspiring others, showing that past mistakes don’t define future potential
Micky’s Words
“I didn’t think school or business was for someone like me. You helped change the course. Now I’ve got my own brand, and I’m building something real.”
Case Study: From Forest to Cricket Fields The Wayanad Girls’ Journey
Deep within the forests of Wayanad, Kerala, two young girls grew up in tribal communities where opportunity was scarce and daily life revolved around collecting fruits within the forest where they lived. Conventional education, sport, and career pathways felt worlds away.
Our Approach
That changed when our Kerala-based Cricket Foundation stepped in. We saw potential beyond circumstance and took action:
- Created inclusive trials specifically for tribal children
- Covered all expenses, education, travel, coaching and gear
- Ensured they could dream beyond the forest without giving up their roots
- Provided mentorship and wellbeing support to build confidence and resilience
Impact
- These young athletes are now training with the All India Womens team!!
- They’ve gained the tools, belief,supporrt and structure to succeed, both on and off the pitch
- Their journey is reshaping what access and equity look like for tribal girls across India
This is the power of inclusive scouting and sport-led transformation. And it’s just the beginning.
SPORTAINMENT ENDORSEMENTS
FEEDBACK
RECOMMEDATIONS
RECOMMEDATIONS
"I’ve had the pleasure of working with Shiv and her team via her brilliant charity, Sportainment, and she’s someone who truly brings passion and purpose to everything she does. Her work ethic is incredible, and she leads with integrity and genuine care. The whole team's commitment to creating a fairer world for young people is inspiring.
"I’ve had the pleasure of working with Shiv and her team via her brilliant charity, Sportainment, and she’s someone who truly brings passion and purpose to everything she does. Her work ethic is incredible, and she leads with integrity and genuine care. The whole team's commitment to creating a fairer world for young people is inspiring. Shiv doesn’t just talk about change; she makes it happen! "
"I had the privilege of working with Shiv and the incredible team at Sportainment, a UK-registered charity that truly stands out for its dedication to advocating for total diversity, equality, and inclusion"
"Their passion for creating opportunities for underrepresented individuals is nothing short of inspiring. Makeebo Dreams goes beyond just words—they actively enable access to opportunities across a wide range of sectors and industries, ensuring fair treatment for individuals from all backgrounds and situations"
"What sets Makeebo Dreams apart is their commitment to driving real change. Their work isn’t just about opening doors; it’s about breaking barriers and reshaping mindsets to foster more inclusive workplaces."
"If your organisation is serious about making a positive impact and embracing diversity, I cannot recommend Shiv Sharma and Makeebo Dreams enough. They are not just advocates; they are changemakers paving the way for a fairer, more equitable future. "
"Simply put, Shiv is easily the best Trainer I've worked with. When we first spoke, she took the time out to get to know me beyond my credentials in order to gauge my personality as well as my experience. This was refreshing in an industry where you're normally pushed towards generic courses
Throughout the proces,s Shiv acted as a mentor and a friend, genuinely invested in my preparation for landing my dream role as well as my success once I had started. We spoke regularly, with every conversation being productive and enjoyable, and we still keep in touch now. Shiv will definitely be my first point of contact and she should be yours too. "
" Love working with Shiv! "
RECOMMEDATIONS
RECOMMEDATIONS
RECOMMEDATIONS
"Shiv is thoughtful and thorough with a genuine sense of care in her work, providing calmness and consideration throughout our partnership. Shiv is approachable, professional, and brings a rare human touch. "
"Shiv brings warmth to all elements of her charity work, helping children and young adults from disadvantaged backgrounds chase the
"Shiv is thoughtful and thorough with a genuine sense of care in her work, providing calmness and consideration throughout our partnership. Shiv is approachable, professional, and brings a rare human touch. "
"Shiv brings warmth to all elements of her charity work, helping children and young adults from disadvantaged backgrounds chase their dreams through sport and other hard-to-access industries. She leads with a powerhouse team that is ensuring significant meaningful change and delivering measurable impact. "
" I have collaborated with Shiv numerous times over the past decade. She demonstrates an unwavering passion for helping others, especially in realising their potential and providing them with the right tools to achieve their dreams. Her personality is characterised by a relentless drive coupled with an empathetic approach. Shiv is on a mission to bring not just partial, but total equality into the workplace, and she won't stop until this goal is fully realised"
"It was apparent to Shiv quickly, just by asking the right questions that she saw potential in me for something great "
"I wanted to take a moment to express my admiration for you and your incredible dedication to charitable work and caring for others. Your selflessness and compassion truly inspire those around you, including me.
From organising community events to volunteering your time and resources, you consistently go above and beyond to make a positive impact in the lives of others. Your ability to connect with people and understand their needs is a rare gift, and it's heartwarming to see how much joy you bring to those you help."
"I wholeheartedly recommend you for any opportunities or initiatives that align with your passion for helping others. Your commitment to making the world a better place is unmatched, and I do not doubt that you will continue to inspire and uplift many more lives."
"Thank you for being such a wonderful friend and a beacon of hope in our community. Keep shining your light!"
IMPACT
RECOMMEDATIONS
IMPACT
"Shiv was incredibly helpful in preparing me for job interviews and was fully dedicated to ensuring I was well-prepared for each one. She takes the time to genuinely understand where you are in your journey and goes the extra mile to help you reach your potential. Her thoughtful approach — from identifying your strengths to building your
"Shiv was incredibly helpful in preparing me for job interviews and was fully dedicated to ensuring I was well-prepared for each one. She takes the time to genuinely understand where you are in your journey and goes the extra mile to help you reach your potential. Her thoughtful approach — from identifying your strengths to building your confidence — gives you the boost you didn’t know you needed to achieve your career goals. Shiv is a passionate advocate for equal access to opportunities in sports and entertainment, and I strongly recommend her services. "
"It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend Shiv, whose dedication and passion for helping others is evident through her leadership at Makeebo Dreams.
Her innovative approach to helping others not only addresses immediate needs but also fosters sustainable change with the support of her partners and sponsors.
Shiv’s ability to inspire volunteers has helped make a difference to their lives."
"Her commitment to the cause is truly commendable, her passion is unbreakable, and her mission benefits both the individual seeking employment but also companies who are seeking to be educated on correct DEI practices and principles. Shiv has been able to recruit individuals with all capabilities and backgrounds, which has enriched her teams."
"Shiv is kind, patient, and caring. She and her team will always go out of their way to make sure each individual is heard and protected. She is one of a kind. "
"Shiv has tackled and conditioned my weaknesses into strengths, through building my confidence and skillset by regular check-ins and coaching sessions.
It is now apparent to me as her student that Shiv’s impact is both long-term and short-term! I believe that Shiv’s training has much to do with why I successfully acquired a role in sales, and am now consistently exceeding my target"