The Lion King and Centrepoint partnership is destined for another successful year after the production’s generous audiences donated £5,465 following last week’s performances.
To raise awareness of hidden homeless and the life changing work of Centrepoint, Aidan Amin, a young person supported by the charity, was invited to share his story following the matinee performance on Wednesday 20th March. The 24-year-old spoke about his experiences and the many different types of homelessness, to over 2000 audience members at the Lyceum Theatre in Covent Garden, London.
With dreams of working in the creative industry, it is part of The Lion King’s work with the homeless charity which has helped him through film and photography courses.
The aspiring film director said “I shared my story, how and why I left home, what happened after I left – going into a refuge, into hostels and then Centrepoint being there and helping me with my depression and job opportunities and everything”.
Di Gornall, Director of Fundraising at Centrepoint said “This type of experience and support helps the young people we support to develop their potential and confidence; skills proudly demonstrated by Aidan”
Centrepoint is the UK’s leading charity for homeless young people, they support more than 9,200 16-25 year olds into a home and job every year.
In 2018, The Lion King raised a remarkable £53,000 for the charity, enough to fund 530 young people gain access to counselling and mental health support.
As well as fundraising and raising awareness, Disney provides unique ways for young people supported by Centrepoint to learn and develop including theatre workshops and business skills opportunities. The partnership is part of Disney EMEA’s social purpose program where we work together with others to help build emotional resilience through opportunity and inspiration.