Colena’s Story

After being born in Ghana and shuttling back and forward between Ghana and the UK, my family settled near where Unitas would be built when I was five. My childhood was often marked by boredom – there wasn’t much to do around the area for young people, and school… well, school was school. I always loved reading, learning, sports and going to church, but didn’t have a real outlet for my passions.

 

Playing in Montrose Park one day, I saw a new building being erected and took a leaflet that explained that a new youth centre was being built and would open soon. I was so excited about this – finally something for me and my friends to do after school and at the weekends. I told my mum that I wanted to join, and became a member on the day that Unitas opened in June 2019.

 

I started coming to Unitas when I was 11. I loved that it was so busy, had so many activities and that I could make so many new friends. The football pitch on the roof blew my mind! I also spent time on the climbing wall, building my strength and confidence. I wasn’t always happy with how I looked, but didn’t have anyone I felt comfortable to talk about this with. The youth workers at Unitas, though, were different. They didn’t judge me and they were so chill. They didn’t lecture me or tell me what to do, but they provide guidance, advice and are always in my corner.

 

Talking of corners, I took up boxing at Unitas, and now that is a huge part of my life. It’s given me focus and ambition – I want to train hard (and my coaches don’t let me off the hook!) to be the best. I’m also in better shape than I have ever been, and feel healthier and happier. I know who I am now, and what I want – I want to succeed at school and at boxing, and Unitas helps me with both.