We are delighted to welcome Apprentice contestant, turned columnist, Ryan-Mark Parsons as our newest Patron.
Ryan-Mark, most notably known for being the youngest contestant on Series 15 of The Apprentice, is currently publishing weekly columns for one of Britain’s biggest newspapers: The Daily Star. He has worked closely with us for several years, representing us at various corporate and community fundraising events, and will now join us as Patron.
Ryan-Mark explains: “I’m immensely thrilled and proud to become a patron for Go Beyond. I’ve worked closely with the charity since 2019, supporting their mission in providing young people well deserved breaks that truly last a lifetime. Whether that’s attending corporate partner fundraising days to raising money and awareness when I turned on the Christmas lights for the London Borough of Bromley”.
We pride ourselves on providing free, week-long breaks in Cornwall and Devon. However, this announcement comes shortly after we’ve begun providing day breaks from our Coastal Centre, after the closure of all Centres amidst the pandemic. We’re hoping to re-instate residential breaks, in addition to day breaks later in the year.
Asked about his decision to join the charity Ryan-Mark said: “Since starring on The Apprentice and other TV shows, I’ve grown a platform that has allowed me to reach thousands of people and it’s important that I use this influence for great causes — that begins with Go Beyond”.
Go Beyond’s Marketing and Communications Manager, Mercedes Brazier added: “We’re delighted that Ryan-Mark has kindly agreed to become our newest Patron. His enthusiasm and dedication to improving the lives of children and young people shines through. His experience and influence will enable the charity to continue it’s crucial work in giving children moments and experiences they need to believe in themselves, and think beyond the day-today for a bigger, brighter future.”
We continue to receive thousands of referrals every day from professionals working with children and young people whose serious situations have worsened during the pandemic, and who desperately need a break from their circumstances.
Each break, whether a day or a residential break, is packed with activities intended to encourage self-belief and inspire adventure, and our biggest hope is for each child to go home knowing they can achieve more than they ever thought possible.
Ryan-Mark states: “I look forward to making an impact as Go Beyond’s patron and will strive to proactively play a part in improving the lives of young people across the country”.
