Richarlison, Tottenham Hotspur Foundation head of programmes Tara Tewarie and Foundation project coordinator André Thomas have shared how their work inspiring, empowering and transforming lives led to them being named on this year’s Football Black List.
All have officially received their awards following a celebratory event, with Richarlison recognised for his off the pitch work, Tara for her services to community and grassroots programmes, and André in the practitioner category.
Founded in 2008 by sports journalists Leon Mann MBE and Rodney Hinds, the Football Black List shines a light on leaders of African and Caribbean heritage working and volunteering across all areas of the game.
A panel of experts from the football industry and Black community vote independently on nominations made by the public to determine who makes the list.
Richarlison has spoken out on various social issues and given back to communities in Brazil through support for good causes assisting families, cancer patients and others.
He said: “Massive thanks to the Football Black List for the award and the kindness you've shown me. This really pushes me to keep putting in the effort, so a big thank you to everyone.
“I know my community and my city in Brazil will be super proud of this award. I want to keep doing more and get others involved in this battle, too.”
Tara oversees the Foundation’s employment and skills and health and wellbeing programmes.
She said: “I feel honoured. I’ve been to the celebration event as a guest before, so it was exciting to return as a winner. It’s so nice to be recognised by colleagues as during my time at the Foundation I’ve worked with some tremendous people.”
Tara recently marked 10 years in post and attributes her longevity to being “passionate about people” as well as opportunities opened up in the local area thanks to the building of Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
“We work with such a diverse community and we have football programmes as a tool for engagement, then it’s about helping them to develop their education, build a career or healthier lifestyle.
“We have unique opportunities at hand to support people thanks to the regeneration of the local area and coupled with quality of delivery in our programmes, that we pride ourselves on at the Foundation, this can have a real transformative impact.”
She added: “When I started 10 years ago, football was very different. There are a lot more diverse staff among Premier League clubs and doing work in the community now. I think the Football Black List highlights role models to encourage others trying to come up in the industry.”
The Huddle Project is a dual football and flag football programme funded by the Club, the NFL, through its NFL Foundation UK charitable arm, and Nike. It was launched in October 2023 and, with André at the helm, has since delivered more than 150 sessions to over 700 young people.
Spurred 2 Coach was set up for young adults without qualifications, but an interest in coaching. André runs courses over four-day sessions during half-terms, with participants completing workbook tasks before sessions that allow them to put theory into practice. The Foundation then helps fund and support them on to the FA Introduction to Coaching Football qualification (previously known as the FA Level 1 in Coaching Football).
André explained how he encourages young people to embrace their differences and the impact that can have.
“Our individuality is our superpower. Your difference makes the difference. I think the more you bring that to the table and really embrace it, the more you can connect with individuals and open doors.”
The Club extends its congratulations to ex-Spurs Women defender Renée Hector, who was a Foundation programme coordinator for seven years before taking up the role of Watford Women head coach last summer, and made this year’s Football Black List for her coaching and management exploits.