Brenda Edwards has announced the launch of The Jamal Edwards Self Belief Trust to continue the legacy of her late son Jamal Edwards (MBE), who passed away earlier this year age 31 after a sudden illness.

Building on work Jamal started, and the causes he cared deeply about, the charity foundation will target three key interrelated areas, combatting homelessness, supporting people with mental health issues and, providing young people with essential life skills.

The remarkable young man was one of the most influential figures in the UK music scene having helped launch the careers of artists like Ed Sheeran and Stormzy. His music platform SBTV forged a new path into music and his work as an Ambassador for the Prince's Trust was just a fraction of the work he did supporting youth and the community. The outpouring from every corner of the industry and public about the way he touched their lives is testament to his unquantifiable impact.

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Now his family are making sure the mark he made in his 31 years only continues to grow.

Sharing the news and explaining the Trust's mission on Instagram, Brenda's statement read:

"Jamal no longer being here has left a huge impact on my life and that of his family, friends and all those he supported and lifted in his unique and humble way. Jamal lived his life staying true to himself, providing a platform for all to showcase what made them special whilst encouraging all to believe in themselves to achieve their full potential.

"I have been so touched by the messages of support received from people from all walks of life who have positive stories to tell of Jamal’s generosity which he gave selflessly
"To honour his memory and continue his legacy, The Jamal Edwards Self Belief Trust has been set up with an objective to support those causes that mattered most to Jamal. The Trust will target three key interrelated areas : (i) Combatting homelessness; (ii) Supporting people with mental health issues and; (iii) Providing young people with essential life skills.

Explaining how the trust will work toward its goals, the statement continued:

"The Trust will look to establish a network of “Self Belief” Houses with the aim of offering individuals who are living rough a roof over their heads. There will be programmes to help tackle mental health issues they may face as well as the means to get back on their feet. The House will offer specialised programmes designed to address issues of self-confidence and other psychological challenges residents may face.

"Jamal was passionate about empowering youth and providing the next generation with both the life skills and opportunities to maximise their potential. The second key initiative the Trust will focus its energy and resources on will be to build The SB Academy, which will continue the mission started by Jamal of hosting specialised programmes aimed at helping young people prepare themselves for adult life.

Brenda also invited friends and followers to support the launch of the fund, finishing the post: "While we wait for the completion of the Trust set up we would be appreciative of any contribution you can make to the Trust and we hope we can make Jamal proud by building out these programmes to support causes that he cared about deeply. Please see the go fund me link in my bio for more details. Thank you, all our love 💙 Brenda, Tanisha and Family."

CONTRIBUTE HERE And read more about The Jamal Edwards Self Belief Trust here.