Gillette Great Starts Initiative Returns
Male grooming brand Gillette has announced the return of its ‘Gillette Great Starts’ initiative, with the aim of helping young people into employment.
Gillette Great Starts uses sport as a platform to engage with young people in the UK. Its aim is to equip them with the experience and qualifications to take their first steps towards a career in the industry and think about opportunities that might exist beyond becoming a professional sportsperson.
The initiative will work with partners Sky, Sports Coach UK and Hill+Knowlton Strategies to educate young people about the different employment opportunities that exist in the sports industry. From learning about the production that goes into creating a show for Sky Sports, to getting the best out of your team through coaching, or understanding how to develop sports marketing campaigns.
In partnership with London-based football charity, Football Beyond Borders, Gillette hosted a launch event at Croydon Powerleague, consisting of a 5-a-side tournament and educational workshops delivered by representatives from Gillette Soccer Saturday, Sports Coach UK and Hill+Knowlton Strategies.
From September this year, Gillette and its partners have been encouraging eligible individuals to apply for the initiative. Available to applicants are three one-month internships at Gillette Soccer Saturday, the funding of 10 FA Level One and FA Level Two coaching badges and one three-month internship at Hill+Knowlton Strategies in the sports & partnership marketing team.
Andras Papp, Gillette & Venus, brand communication EIMEA said: “We’re delighted to be able to bring Gillette Great Starts back for the next generation of young people and help them through one of the toughest transitions they currently face.
“We understand that a career in sport is an ambition for so many, but often the lack of opportunities means they can’t turn those dreams into reality. We’re hoping to inspire young people to show what they can do in sports, and through Gillette Great Starts, give them the chance to take their first steps towards a career in the industry.”
Ian Condon, producer, Gillette Soccer Saturday said: “Gillette has had a long relationship working with Sky and Gillette Soccer Saturday and as Producer of the show, we’re hugely proud to be involved in Gillette Great Starts in 2016. We want to help the best young talent find their way in sports broadcasting, whether it be working behind or in front of the camera. Being able to share our knowledge and expertise with passionate young people who want to get involved in the sports industry and provide the opportunities for them to do so is fantastic.”
Mark Gannon, CEO, Sports Coach UK said: “We’re delighted to continue our partnership with Gillette to encourage more people to become coaches through the Gillette Great Starts programme. We know exactly how important good coaches are to ensuring that sport is fun, social and rewarding. We also know that becoming a coach is rewarding in itself, with benefits for the individual and the community they’re from. We hope everyone enjoyed the day and will be inspired to develop their chosen path in the sport.”
