WELCOME TO THE GLOVES ARE ON
Following a diagnosis of breast cancer in October 2017, Soraya Kelly founded The Gloves Are On campaign. Through this campaign, Soraya has raised awareness for the early detection of cancer, as well as helped to alleviate the stigma associated with the word, known to many as the big C. The campaign has now become an inspirational journey making a difference to many.
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The Gloves Are On gained charitable status in October 2019 and is continuing to do so much more than when the campaign first began in February 2018 by supporting children, young people, and families through Education, Support and Guidance.
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Having had a very dysfunctional upbringing in a deprived area that suffered from high unemployment, as well as extensive drug
and alcohol misuse, Soraya has always used her experiences to make a difference. Despite leaving school without any qualifications and with a disability, she has succeeded against the odds. Her motto; "not why me, but try me!"
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With this in mind, Soraya is particularly passionate about providing opportunities and support for young people and disadvantaged groups. The charity encourages a partnership approach as Soraya feels, from experience, better outcomes will be achieved.
WHAT WE DO
At #TheGlovesAreOn our inclusion for all ethos is paramount to supporting those who need it most. As a charity, we operate within the communities we work and live in to generate awareness of the issues that are affecting children, young people, and adults. Throughout the short journey, the campaign and charity have seen a remarkable impact on the individuals and communities that we work alongside.
The founder Carmen Soraya Kelly has supported numerous charities and has raised much-needed funds to those close to her heart. These include financial support to Llandough Hospital Breast Cancer Unit, Cancer Research Wales, Caron Keating Foundation, as well as The Finn Foundation.
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The charity provides financial support for hardship grants that allow young people to gain access to any necessary items required to enhance their day-to-day lives – e.g., school uniforms, sportswear and equipment. Sponsorships are also given to ensure all children, and young people can access any barriers alleviating them to excel in their life journey.
These include a sports programme run by the Joe Ledley Academy, a golf sponsorship through the Hannah Bowen Women and Girls Academy and a sponsorship to a young boxer who has faced several obstacles in his life and has now been selected to represent Wales in this years Commonwealth Games. Young people involved in our projects are often rewarded with gift vouchers and hospitality experiences to show appreciation for the amazing impact they are making on themselves and others in their community.
A LITTLE MORE ABOUT OUR FOUNDER
"Hi, I am Carmen Soraya Kelly. As a result of my cancer diagnosis, I was inspired to make a difference by starting #TheGlovesAreOn campaign and then setting up the charity. I was one of the fortunate ones who, because of early detection, has beaten cancer. I now inspire others by raising awareness of cancer, mental health issues, and other serious subjects that need to be highlighted through a joined-up approach!
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I am passionate about the inclusion of children and young people and helping them to have a voice. That passion gave me the drive to study for a BA (Hons) Degree in Youth and Community Education at the age of 36. Along with my degree, I have undertaken relevant training including a number of advanced child protection, mental health, and suicide awareness courses. In addition, I’m currently studying for an Equality and Diversity qualification.
![Screenshot_20220614-203404_Instagram[39004].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/f279c9_13af90b6e8b3404580d805159310506f~mv2.jpg/v1/crop/x_0,y_174,w_1079,h_727/fill/w_470,h_317,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/Screenshot_20220614-203404_Instagram%5B39004%5D.jpg)
On an ongoing basis, I am keeping up to date with any relevant training to ensure I have a comprehensive knowledge of subjects or issues affecting our communities. Adding to the relevant training and qualifications achieved, the charity is in the process of attaining accreditation in order to offer a wider range of options to young people and organisations.
Soraya's philosophy is that, with a collective approach, better outcomes
will prevail and more lives will be saved or enhanced.
SEE.SPEAK.SAVE
#UNITE4YOUTH
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