Find out more about our 14 in 2 million
Last week, Good Things Foundation celebrated helping more than 2 million people gain digital skills, by focussing on the stories of 14 inspirational individuals.
The finalists in the 2 Millionth Learner Awards were at the BT Tower in London for the Awards Ceremony, attended by digital inclusion stakeholders from across government and industry.
Between them they had overcome drug and alcohol addictions, gone from homelessness to employment, escaped an unhappy arranged marriage, learned to live and deal with mental and physical illnesses, started new businesses - and then taken everything they’ve learned to help others follow the same path.
The Awards were handed out by representatives from Lloyds Banking Group, MIND, Google and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), the Department for Education (DfE), the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) - all of whom were part of the panel judging the entries.
Speaking at the event, Minister of State for Digital and Culture Matt Hancock said: "Digital skills matter more than ever. Helping more than two million people learn digital skills is a fantastic achievement and I congratulate Good Things Foundation on passing this milestone. I've seen the Foundation in action and they are truly impressive.
“This work has transformed people's lives and the inspirational stories of all today's award winners who have overcome major challenges using their new skills should encourage others to do the same.”
Also speaking at the event was Inspirational Learner award winner Olwyn Popplewell. He said: “I can’t believe that I’m here receiving this award. I mean, a year and a half ago, I was sleeping rough. With the support of Crisis, Evolve Housing, the Council, and Good Things Foundation, I’ve got to where I am now. I’ve got a bank account and actually know what a computer is. I accept this on behalf of everybody. All homeless people. All people trying to make themselves better.”
Find out more about Olwyn and the other winners by visiting the 2 Millionth Learner Awards page, you can also read Helen Milner’s blog about the day.
