Alex & Alfie

Alex was just 18 years old when she began working as a support worker for young disabled people. It was through this experience that she discovered her passion for disability support and inclusion, leading her to study Special Educational Needs and Disability Studies at the University of Suffolk. Alex graduated with a First Class degree and was awarded the University’s Dissertation of the Year Award in 2018 for her research, “An Exploration into the Perspectives of Young Men with Down’s Syndrome on Love.”

In September 2018, Alex founded Project 21.

Alex’s first experience of Down’s Syndrome was meeting Alfie, an 11-year-old boy with a love of singing, dancing and making people laugh. The pair met every Saturday and quickly developed a close friendship. As this bond grew, Alex became immersed in the Down’s Syndrome community, organising voluntary theatre trips to London and regular social opportunities for Alfie and his friends.

As her experience in the sector grew, Alex recognised that most services available to disabled people were limited, unchallenging, and failed to reflect the ambitions and potential of those accessing them. She saw a need for something different; a place that listened to people with Down’s Syndrome, valued their aspirations and created opportunities that were exciting, ambitious and meaningful.

From this vision, Project 21 was born: a charity dedicated to providing innovative activities, education, employment opportunities and social experiences for people with Down’s Syndrome, supporting them to exceed expectations and continually push boundaries.

More than a decade after they first met, Alfie remains at the heart of Project 21’s story. His determination, positivity, and zest for life inspired Alex to see the world differently and helped shape the values upon which the charity was founded. His influence continues to drive Project 21’s mission to create a future where people with Down’s Syndrome are empowered to thrive, achieve their goals and live fulfilling lives.