The Football Foundation is set to financially support an education scheme named in honor of Stephen Lawrence, the teenager who was tragically murdered in a racist attack in 1993. This initiative seeks to provide career development opportunities through the Stephen Lawrence Scholarship.
The scholarship, run in conjunction with the University of Greenwich, will prioritize Black students from low socioeconomic backgrounds, as well as those who are estranged or have experience in the care system, who are looking to complete a leading architecture course beginning in September.
Stephen Lawrence was an aspiring architect and avid football fan before his untimely death in South London 32 years ago. The initiative, facilitated by Charlton vice-chairman and former Chelsea defender Paul Elliott, aims to help students find employment in architecture-related positions within English football, such as stadium design.
Paul Elliott stated that this partnership is a strong example of what can be achieved when shared values and vision come together. He added that it has been a personal honor to unite these organizations in Stephen Lawrence's name, connecting his passion for football with a collective commitment to creating inspiring spaces and life-changing opportunities for young people. He believes that the Stephen Lawrence Scholarship not only honors Stephen's legacy but actively builds upon it by empowering a new generation.
Stephen's mother, Baroness Lawrence, noted that the establishment of this scholarship in Stephen's name marks a meaningful continuation of his legacy, providing opportunities for the next generation and reinforcing the vital role that education and sport can play in transforming communities.
The Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation has partnered with the University of Greenwich to launch the first of the new scholarships in 2024/25, offering a postgraduate fee waiver for Architecture students. Priority is given to Black students from low socioeconomic backgrounds. The University of Greenwich stated that Stephen's legacy for change will be continued and celebrated through this new scholarship, and they are honored to be the institution that will offer it. They believe these scholarships represent an incredible opportunity for young people to turn their dreams into a reality, empowering the next generation of leaders, changemakers, and trailblazers.
Adidas is also supporting Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation scholarships at the London College of Fashion (LCF), offering four students £75,750 over three years to cover tuition fees and living costs. These scholarships aim to support young talents while fostering diversity within the creative industry. The scholarships will support home students who are enrolled in or have completed the UAL's Insights Programme, or are from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, starting at LCF in September 2025. The purpose of these scholarships is to allow talented young people to succeed in the fashion industry while contributing to its diversification.
The Arsenal Foundation also observes Stephen Lawrence Day and has launched several initiatives that embody the spirit of hope that Stephen's legacy inspires, including work experience, mentorship programs, apprenticeships, and scholarships that open doors for aspiring young people. The foundation aims to scale its efforts, doubling the opportunities available, particularly focusing on career pathways and scholarships in the arts and architecture.
The Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation Scholarship is also available at The London School of Architecture (LSA) for students of global majority heritage with a demonstrable commitment to social justice and community engagement and are in financial need. The scholarship provides £1500 for each year of study, a laptop and study-specific software, a placement at an EDI Architect firm, master classes, and coaching/mentoring from LSA alumni & practice mentor.
