Jemima’s Big Effort to Give Others a Sporting Chance
By Charities Correspondent
Ten-year-old Jemima has just completed an incredible fundraising challenge — raising over £3,400 for the Mintridge Foundation, a charity that helps young people build confidence and develop a healthy relationship with sport.
Most of Jemima’s runs took place across Cornwall, and her determination has captured the attention of the charity and her local community.
“Jemima is truly remarkable,” said Alex Wallace, Founder of Mintridge Foundation. “She’s shown that you’re never too young to make a real difference.”
A Charity That Came from Lived Experience
The Mintridge Foundation was set up in 2015 by Alex Wallace, a lifelong sports fan and former elite hockey player. But the idea came from something more personal.
Alex had a difficult time as a teenager after narrowly missing out on a place in the England Hockey team. That disappointment took a toll on her confidence, and she struggled with what felt like failure.
“All I really needed was someone to tell me that I still deserved to be there,” she said.
That experience eventually inspired her to create Mintridge — a charity that now works with schools and communities across the UK, connecting young people with sporting role models to help them feel more confident, stay active, and improve their mental health.
Sport for Everyone
Growing up, Alex’s role model was rugby star Jonny Wilkinson. She admired his work ethic and team spirit — but looking back, she realises how few female sporting role models were visible at the time.
“My other role models were the Spice Girls — and anyone who’s heard me sing will know that was never going to be a career option!” she joked.
Alex hopes that through Mintridge, every young person can see someone they relate to, no matter their background, and feel that sport is a space for them too.
“It doesn’t matter whether you want to compete, coach, or just enjoy it for fun — sport should be a positive part of life for everyone.”
Jemima’s Legacy
Jemima’s fundraiser is a shining example of that vision in action. She’s helped raise £3,427.50, and thanks to her efforts, more children will be able to access Mintridge’s programmes and feel the benefits of sport — physically, mentally, and socially.
To find out more about the Mintridge Foundation or to support their work, visit www.mintridgefoundation.org.uk
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