Category: News

Development of the new Anthony Walker Education Centre

Posted on | by Chelsey

This month we have been delighted to support the International Slavery Museum in the design of an educational space in the museum (currently closed for redevelopment) that will carry Anthony’s name and continue his legacy. 

From the opening of International Slavery Museum in 2007, until it closed for redevelopment in 2025, the original Anthony Walker Education Centre served as a safe space within the museum for young people to hold conversations, events and participate in workshops exploring themes within the museum. The Centre was inspired by our work here at Anthony Walker Foundation to tackle racism, hate crime and discrimination, and ensure a powerful legacy for Anthony. 

The reimagined museum will feature new spaces for people to connect, reflect and discover. To ensure that Liverpool’s young people have a role in shaping the design of the new space named after Anthony, students from four of our ‘Tackling Racism in Schools Awards’ programme partner schools: Childwall Sports and Science Academy, Belvedere Academy, St. Hilda’s Church of England High School, and Liverpool College were invited to attend two workshops; where they worked with the Learning and Participation team at International Slavery Museum, and Kossy Nnachetta, an architect from Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios.

In both sessions, the students presented their ideas for the new space with thoughtful suggestions such as a mural dedicated to Anthony featuring the things he loved and who he was. Colour schemes; a book corner containing books on all topics, and for all ages; plants; ambient music; and a quiet sensory area were some of the idea shared with Kossy, the lead architect, who made plenty of notes to build these ideas into her plan for the new space. Dr. Gee Walker also attended the sessions, moving around the room to hear from the students, speaking to them in smaller groups and giving feedback and praise for their ideas and plans. 

Claire Benjamin, Head of Learning & Participation, said: “For almost 20 years the Anthony Walker Education Centre welcomed many thousands of young people through its doors. We were proud to name the space after Anthony and with the blessings of his family, and the Anthony Walker Foundation, support their work to explore legacies of racial slavery and the impact it continues to have on young people today.
As we plan for the future of International Slavery Museum it is an honour to continue this relationship, and a joy to bring the vision and ideas of Liverpool’s young people into the conversation with our brilliant architects, to steer and inform the design.”  

Judith Agis, Tackling Racism in Schools (TRSA) Programme Manager, said: “We are grateful to National Museums Liverpool for this opportunity. It not only continues the long-standing partnership between National Museums Liverpool and Anthony Walker Foundation but, by inviting our TRSA Student Ambassadors to assist in the redesign of the Anthony Walker Education Centre within the new International Slavery Museum, it also engages the next generation.” 

In a few months, once the architects have met to rework the plans, there will be a third session for further feedback from the students. We are all excited to see the designs and see the students’ ideas come to life in the Anthony Walker Education Centre. 

We’d like to give a big thank you to our TRSA Ambassadors for their enthusiastic involvement, it was incredible to hear all your thoughts, and to National Museums Liverpool for this opportunity. It continues the long-standing partnership between National Museums Liverpool and Anthony Walker Foundation and invites the next generation to design a space that will be used by young people as a learning space for generations to come. 

Welcome to our TRSA Student Ambassadors at The Heath

Posted on | by Chelsey

A huge thank you to our newest TRSA Ambassadors at The Heath Secondary School, Runcorn!

The Heath Secondary School were incredibly grateful to Jude Agis, TRSA Programme Manager, and the team, Julie, Xander, Chelsey, and Rahana, for spending three powerful days at the school delivering the Tackling Racism in Schools Award (TRSA) workshops to all Year 8 students. The Heath Ambassadors played a key role across all nine sessions, showing remarkable dedication, energy, and leadership.

By the end of the three days, it was clear to both the TRSA team and school staff that the students had grown in confidence and resilience. They experienced first-hand their school’s commitment to creating a culture where differences are celebrated, every student feels seen, and diversity is valued as a strength.

Students engaged enthusiastically, exploring topics from unconscious bias to the difference between being “not racist” and “anti-racist.” Their joy in participating, and the courage many showed in sharing personal experiences of racism, was truly moving. They also offered thoughtful solutions, such as cultural celebration days, demonstrating their commitment to making their school a more inclusive environment.

The school leadership has expressed their deep appreciation:

“We want to extend our thanks to Jude and her team for these incredibly powerful three days. The sessions have reinforced just how much our students need this support, particularly in a school with limited exposure to cultural diversity. Our students—and indeed our staff—benefit enormously from guidance on understanding and challenging racism. Our TRSA Ambassadors are already bigger, stronger, and more confident as a result of this experience, and we are committed to continuing this important work.”

We look forward to seeing all the wonderful initiatives from The Heath Ambassadors over the coming months and celebrating their successes at the TRSA Awards ceremony in July!

20th Anniversary Gala and Awards – Update

Posted on | by Chelsey

UPDATE🎉
After receiving further donations pledged from the Gala, we are delighted and so grateful to announce that the event has now raised
🎉£25,500🎉


Thank you to all who donated, purchased raffle tickets, or participated in our auction!
With a special thanks to Elaine Clarke, and to Geoff Thompson on behalf of the Professional Footballers Association for their generous donations; words cannot express our gratitude.

On Thursday 23rd October 2025, we held our 20th Anniversary Gala at the Rum Warehouse, Titanic Hotel. It was a fantastic night, raising £17,500🎉 We are so grateful to everyone who helped us raise that staggering amount, and we want to thank all who helped to make this event a resounding success.

Special thank you to our M.C, David Okoro, who made the evening the perfect balance of celebration, inspirational, sentimental, and a perfect tribute to Anthony.
To our guests — you all looked incredible! — and to all who donated, purchased raffle tickets, and took part in the auction, thank you. And to our raffle and auction prize donors, your generosity in donating such wonderful prizes meant we sold out of raffle tickets– 2,500 raffle tickets sold in the space of a few hours! It also resulted in the best and liveliest auction ever!.
To our Gold sponsors, Liverpool FC, Everton FC, Taylor Wessing LLP, our Award Sponsor, Weightmans, and all our other corporate, community and charity supporters – thank you
Without you all, the evening would not have been possible.

We have so much gratitude for all the event team at the Titanic Hotel who helped us to coordinate this event. Thanks also goes to our entertainment: Tomos, our wonderful saxophonist (@tomosluke ); Dr. Levi Tafari who kicked off the programme with his poem “Our Liverpool” (@drlevitafari ); Kof (@kofmusic ), Hayli Kincaide (@hayli_k_vocalist) and LUV Gospel Ensemble who closed the programme; and Mervyn Lynch (@dj2kind) and Girls Don’t Sync (@girlsdontsync) for getting everyone on the dancefloor for the afterparty – you were fantastic. And finally, to Rakie Ayola (@rakieayola) a.k.a Gee’s tv twin – thank you for presenting Gee’s award!

Our AV team, MSP Global (@mspglobal ), turned our event into an incredible production. C.K Events (@c.k.events1) for dressing both the tables and the room; the balloon backdrop and light-up letters quickly became THE area for guests photos, with a queue forming in-between courses! Mary Mary Florals (@marymaryflorals) for dressing the stage, and Hopeful Studio (@hopeful_studio) for creating the gala brochures. We are so grateful to you all.

Huge thanks, and photo credits, go to Stephon Joseph @thatstephonjoseph .

All of the team here at the Anthony Walker Foundation are immensely proud, as the Gala was an incredible celebration of Anthony’s life and legacy. In addition, the fundraising will help us to continue our support work for survivors of hate crime, and our Education programme for Primary schools through to Higher Education institutions. This work contributes towards our goal of building stronger, safer communities for all.

Our final and most important thank you goes to Dr Gee Walker and all of the Walker family. We hope this celebration highlighted the success of all you have achieved, and continue to achieve, in Anthony’s name 💜💚

Celebrating Champions of Change: Tackling Racism in Schools Award Ceremony Honours Student Ambassadors and Educators

Posted on | by Chelsey

Last Friday evening, at Liverpool’s Yoko Ono Tung Auditorium, the region came together to celebrate the incredible achievements of students and educators at the Tackling Racism in Schools Award Ceremony, an inspiring event recognising those who have shown unwavering commitment to fostering inclusive, respectful, and equitable learning environments.

Held in a spirit of unity and celebration, the ceremony — compèred by TRSA Manager, Jude Agis — honoured the efforts of pupil ambassadors and school leaders who have gone above and beyond in challenging racism, promoting diversity, and creating spaces where every student feels seen, heard, and valued.

The awards were presented by Dr. Gee Walker MBE, a lifelong campaigner for racial justice and co-founder of the Anthony Walker Foundation, alongside other distinguished VIP guests from across the region. During her closing speech, Dr Walker invited all of our Student Ambassadors to the stage, in a moving moment to honour their achievements.

Audiences were treated to an evening of powerful performances including:
· A soulful set by Belvedere Academy’s choir, whose harmonies brought a message of hope and unity.
· A moving and humorous spoken word performance by Liverpool’s own Levi Tafari, the renowned Urban Griot and consciousness raiser.
· A high-energy, rhythmic finale by the electrifying samba reggae band Batala Mersey, bringing the night to a vibrant close.

A short film, by Darren Brady, showcasing the outstanding work of the participating schools was also screened, highlighting initiatives that promote anti-racism, cultural understanding, and student empowerment.

“This ceremony is about more than recognition,” said Jude Agis. “It’s about spotlighting the courage and compassion of young people who are standing up, speaking out, and making real change in their communities.”

The Tackling Racism in Schools initiative continues to grow, building networks of students and staff dedicated to dismantling discrimination and celebrating diversity throughout the education system.

WE ARE HIRING:

Posted on | by Emmanuel Agbozo

Hate Crime Support & Community Engagement Worker

We are seeking a dedicated and passionate individual to join our Hate Crime Team at the Anthony Walker Foundation as a Hate Crime Support Worker. 

The role holder’s primary responsibility is to offer a high quality level of support to victims of racial and religious hate incidents. This is through providing services of emotional support, advice, practical help and signposting to other organisations.   

The role will require working in partnership with statutory partners, community groups and hate crime specialist agencies.  

They will also focus on building connections with other agencies/organisations to work collaboratively and to strengthen and grow AWF connections within the community. They will be expected to organise and oversee events. 

They are expected to promote the values of AWF, by always remaining professional and encouraging a positive and inclusive working environment for all colleagues.  

The role holder is expected to work a minimum of thirty-two hours per week.  

Responsibilities:

  • Contact with victims of race and religious hate incidents, to assess their respective needs and provide emotional support, practical help, advice and information 
  • Communications to be provided via phone, text, email and face to face appointments  
  • Be aware of local services to signpost clients to for specific support (i.e., legal advice, housing issues, and health and psychological support) 
  • Collaborate with police, housing providers, local council, schools and other supporting agencies to address the needs of victims 
  • Organise attendance at community events to promote the Foundation’s objectives and inform the public of support available  
  • Look at ways we can strengthen and promote the AWF within the community  
  • Work with the rest of the team to discuss cases, progress outcomes and develop learning 
  • Prioritise high risk cases and take necessary interventions  
  • Answer the office phone; take self-referrals, give advice/information or take messages 
  • Develop a culture and systems that promote equality and diversity  
  • Promote a health and safety culture within the workplace 

Working Hours/Location & Salary:

The core workplace is the AWF office, LCVS Building, Dale Street Liverpool (or any new location where the Foundation is based). However, staff will be allowed to work from home or other locations to address the needs of the Foundation or for welfare reasons.  

It should be noted that working from home is not an entitlement, as staff are expected attend the office and visit clients as part of their role.  

Salary: £11.55 Per Hour. 

Skill Requirements:

  • The ability to work well independently and as part of a team.
  • Excellent communication skills – both written and oral.
  • Good levels of IT knowledge and use e.g. Outlook, Word, Excel.
  • High level of emotional intelligence and listening skills.
  • Attention to detail and precise recording and documenting of case updates.
  • Following data protection, legislation and confidentiality protocols.
  • Willingness to learn and develop additional skills.
  • An understanding to work with victims of hate-crime and/or vulnerable people.
  • Able to cope well with difficult cases and adapt to changing situations.
  • Good organisational skills to manage a high case load effectively.
  • Use initiative to always provide as much effective support as possible.

How to Apply:

Send your CV & cover letter to info@anthonywalkerfoundation.org.uk


KSI & IShowSpeed Set to Go Head-to-Head and #Spar4Anthony

Posted on | by Emmanuel Agbozo

Mark your calendars for the 15th of December, as London hosts this epic encounter that promises a sparring spectacle. The adrenaline-fueled showdown bewteen KSI & IShowSpeed will be streamed live exclusively on IShowSpeed’s YouTube channel, offering fans around the globe a front row seat to the sparring action. Set your alarms for 4am GMT/11 pm ET/PT 8pm, as the virtual world converges with the real, transcending time zones and boundaries for an unmissable experience.

KSI’s electrifying spar with IShowSpeed coincides with the face-off between Jake Paul and professional boxer Andre August on the same night. The tension and rivalries are reaching a boiling point, and KSI, unrelenting in his taunts, adds fuel to the fire as he stakes his claim in the spotlight.

Beyond the riveting entertainment that promises to captivate audiences, the anticipated spar carries a deeper purpose. KSI and IShowSpeed have pledged to raise crucial funds with all donations and YouTube ad revenue going to the Anthony Walker Foundation. Standing with us in solidarity as a beacon against racism and hate crime, challenging prejudice, discrimination, inequality and instead promoting peace, harmony, and integrity.

Kaushik Mistry, CEO of the Anthony Walker Foundation says: “Dr Gee Walker MBE, Anthony’s mother and our founder has taken KSI under her wing.

In acknowledgement of the pervasive reality of racism and various forms of hate and discrimination that persist in our society, we, as a charity, recognise the importance of addressing these issues in all areas of life. From schools to workplaces, and public spaces, we cannot afford to turn a blind eye to the challenges that lie before us. Racism thrives when we turn a blind eye!

Recent events, including KSI’s own prior regrettable incident involving racist terminology which he has since apologised for, have underscored the profound impact such actions can have on individuals and communities. In alignment with our Foundation’s principles, we are steadfast in our support for KSI on his anti-racism journey, as he endeavours to create a positive legacy that transcends past mistakes.

While the path to forgiveness and compassion may not be easy for many, we believe in the transformative power of collective effort and understanding. Speaking from personal experience, we acknowledge the difficulty of this journey, yet we hold fast to the belief that what once seemed impossible can become a possible through faith, perseverance, and collaboration.

The whole Walker family extends our deepest gratitude to KSI, IShowSpeed and all those who have shown support, kindness, and belief in our mission. “It is this unwavering support that keeps the spirit of Anthony, our beloved son, alive. Through your collective efforts, we aim to foster hope not just for the now but for the future.”

The Walker family commitment to ensuring Anthony’s legacy lives on with positivity and impact is echoed in the foundation’s mission. Through educational initiatives, victim support services, and advocacy for equity and inclusion, the Anthony Walker Foundation stands at the forefront of the battle against societal ills. As we navigate this journey towards anti-racism, let us stand united in our commitment to positive change leaving a lasting legacy that inspires generations to come.

KSI, in a statement that underscores his commitment to social responsibility, shares: “This, the start of my journey with the Anthony Walker Foundation has been enlightening, and I am dedicated to leveraging this platform to promote racial harmony through education, sport, the arts, and support for those who have experienced hate crime.”

IShowSpeed says: “Honoured to be able to support this great charity that does so much good by simply knocking out KSI.”

Get ready to witness the collision of online stardom and athletic prowess on December 15th, as KSI and IShowSpeed go head-to-head and transcend the boundaries of the digital universe and #Spar4Anthony. Join us for an unforgettable night of sportsmanship, camaraderie, and a shared commitment to making a positive impact on the world.

WATCH LIVE ON ISHOWSPEED YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/c/ishowspeed

WAYS YOU CAN DONATE:

1) JustGiving – https://justgiving.com/anthonywalkerfoundation

    2) Text AWF followed by your donation amount to 70490 for example text AWF5 to donate £5, AWF10 to donate £10, etc. Texts will cost the donation amount plus one standard network rate message. Please seek bill payers permission before donating. Thank you.

    PRESS RELEASE

    Posted on | by Emmanuel Agbozo

    The Anthony Walker Foundation has become aware of an excerpt from a James English podcast featuring Joey Barton, wherein he refers to the murder of Anthony Walker by his brother Michael.

    We consider his description of Anthony’s murder as factually incorrect, lacking in any sensitivity given the serious nature of the incident, in which Anthony Walker tragically lost his life to a violent racially motivated attack by Mr Barton’s brother and his cousin Paul Taylor.

    This year is the eighteenth anniversary of Anthony’s murder, so we express our hope that Mr Barton will reflect on the impact of his words and the profound significance of the actions of his brother as he walks the street a free man. It is worth noting that Michael Barton did not lose 17 years of his life, the only life lost that day was Anthony’s and not for 17 years, but forever.

    It saddens us that someone with his reach and status would seem to trivialize the incident that led to such an outcome and heap further pain and suffering upon the family and friends of Anthony.

    The Anthony Walker Foundation will continue to strive for a more inclusive world where such an incident never reoccurs. Our charity will continue to tackle racism, hate crime and discrimination by providing educational opportunities and victim support services and by promoting equity and inclusion for all.

    Kaushik Mistry
    CEO
    Anthony Walker Foundation

    AWF Appoints Kaushik Mistry as new CEO

    Posted on | by Emmanuel Agbozo

    As Chair of the AWF, Dominique Walker is delighted to announce that Kaushik Mistry has been appointed as the new CEO.

    John Denny (former CEO), who has with the Board, overseen the development of the Foundation in recent years will now become a trustee himself.

    Kaushik has a great understanding and respect for the anti-racist mission of the charity, the role of the family and the legacy that continues to be built in the name of Anthony.

    Kaushik is honoured to be working alongside Dr Gee, the family, the board and colleagues to help shape the future direction of the essential work of the AWF in the name of Anthony.

    WE ARE RECRUITING

    Posted on | by John Williams

    Job Title: Hate Crime Support Worker

    Location: Anthony Walker Foundation, 151 Dale Street, Liverpool, L2 2AH

    Salary: Above National Minimum Wage

    Contract: Permanent, full-time (32 hours per week, with a possibility of up to 40 hours)

    The Role:

    We seek a dedicated Hate Crime Support Worker to join our Hate Crime Support Team to provide emotional support, advice, and advocacy to victims of race and religious hate crimes and incidents. As a Hate Crime Support Worker, you will work closely with statutory partners, community groups, and hate crime specialist agencies to help build the confidence of hate crime victims, some of whom may become isolated. In addition, you will promote the values of our organization by remaining professional and fostering a positive and inclusive working environment for all your colleagues.

    Key Responsibilities:

    • Contact victims of race and religious hate crimes and incidents and assess their needs.
    • Provide moral support and advice to victims.
    • Signpost clients to other services (i.e., legal advice, housing issues, and health and psychological support).
    • Explain the broader systems and processes around criminal cases, neighbour disputes, target hardening, and assist in facilitating contact with investigating officers and supporting victims throughout the investigative process.
    • Collaborate with local policing teams and hate crime coordinators (at least bimonthly) to identify and resolve emerging issues and share best practices.
    • Ensure risk and needs assessment is completed for each service user to identify specific needs and services, including providing emotional support and practical help, including signposting to other agencies.
    • Attend community events to promote the foundation’s objectives.
    • Develop a culture and systems that promote equality and diversity.

    Requirements:

    • Experience of working with victims is preferred.
    • Excellent communication, listening, and advocacy skills.
    • The ability to work independently and as part of a team.
    • Willingness to work flexible hours, including some evenings and weekends.
    • A valid driving license and access to a car for work purposes are desirable but not necessary.

    We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of race, gender, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation, or age.

    The candidate with be offered in-role training, so a willingness to learn and a positive attitude are essential.

    If you are passionate about supporting victims of hate crime, please apply with your CV detailing your experience and suitability for the role – info@anthonywalkerfoundation.org.uk

    Liverpool Everyman & Playhouse Announce Partnership with Anthony Walker Foundation  

    Posted on | by Emmanuel Agbozo

    As part of its ongoing commitment to being an anti-racist organisation, the Liverpool Everyman and Playhouse is delighted to be formalising a partnership with the Anthony Walker Foundation today to further its ambitions. 

    Mark Da Vanzo, CEO for the theatres said,   

    ““We are so grateful to all those who have been part of our drive for change. Collaboration is key to this and working with the Anthony Walker Foundation has been invaluable. As we aim to reflect the diversity of our communities through the work on our stages, our workforce, ensuring our buildings are as accessible as they can be and that our initiatives do not perpetuate inequality, it is vital that our staff are supported and trained. Our new formal partnership with Anthony Walker Foundation is important in delivering this and we are thankful to Gee and the team.”   

    John Denny CEO of the Anthony Walker Foundation added,  

    “We know that the Liverpool Everyman Theatre & Playhouse is iconic in this City, and “is committed to community-led work, consultation and collaboration” with a mission to “nurture positive social change and explore what it is to be human”

    At the Anthony Walker Foundation we are overjoyed to become partners in this mission, bringing our approach to anti-racism developed as part of the legacy we have created in response to the racially motivated murder of Anthony Walker in 2005.”

    Changing attitudes and established working practices does not happen overnight and this new partnership with the Anthony Walker Foundation is another step on that an-going journey, so that everyone who comes through the theatres’ doors feels welcome and safe, regardless of their background or means. You can read more about the theatres’ commitment to diversity here