Newman Alumnus becomes Hometown Hero
Jeevan Singh Chagger studied at Newman firstly studying his Health Mentor Short Course and then his MSc in Work Based Learning (Health Mentor), graduating in 2020.
Before studying at Newman, Jeevan worked for Evolve: A Social Impact Company after completing his A Levels, where he worked in a number of schools with the aim of improving the lives and health and wellbeing of young people. The courses that Jeevan then studied at Newman helped to develop his practice as an educational practitioner and gave Jeevan the knowledge to maximise his impact within his role.
Whilst studying at university, Jeevan was also able to support new learners from Evolve on the level 4 course and received external recognition as National Disability Mentor of the year in 2019 and was also named England Hockey Rising Star in the same year due to his work on the hockey pitch.
Jeevan enjoyed connecting with other students during his time at Newman, commenting “Newman is a university that embraces diversity and allows individuals from all walks of life to immerse themselves into student life, bringing them all together to help shape our future communities.”
Since graduating last year Jeevan continues to work for Evolve as a Senior Health Mentor where he continues to develop the health and wellbeing of young people, specifically those with a diagnosis of Autism. As well as his busy day job, Jeevan is the Chairman of City of Birmingham Hockey Club for the men’s and juniors sections.
As part of the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham in 2022, the games have decided to shine a light on some hometown heroes to celebrate those who go the extra mile to develop sport and encourage participation. Jeevan was nominated by members of England Hockey as well as friends and family at his local hockey club. They all nominated Jeevan as they felt he deserved recognition for the work he has done to increase participation in hockey.
Jeevan joined his hockey club aged 11, was named young player of the year in 2013, elected onto club management in 2016 , named clubman of the year and then became chairman in 2018, becoming the youngest hockey chairman in English hockey at just 21 years of age.
Talking about why hockey is so important for the community, Jeevan comments “Hockey can play a key role in community integration. It also allows everyone to participate, regardless of their ability and gives people the chance to experience other sports as opposed to football, cricket and rugby which are so prominent.
“Hockey has helped many people to develop themselves, be that through young player pathway to have the opportunity to represent their county and country, develop themselves as a coach and obtain national or international accreditation or as an umpire, again at many levels. Hockey as a sport allows anyone with an interest in sport to take up the chance to make their mark and support the game, be it as an official, player or supporter.”
Jeevan has increased membership at the club by creating connections with schools, universities and local communities, allowing the club to grow and have two men’s and ladies teams as well as a successful junior section.
Jeevan has focussed on providing opportunities for young people from a diverse range of backgrounds including ethnic minority groups, children with Special Educational Needs and disabilities, and from socio-economically deprived areas.
It is clear to see that Jeevan plays an important part at the club and is involved in every aspect as he is not only the chairman but he also plays, coaches, umpires, mentors, volunteers and supports all members.
With all the work Jeevan has achieved, it is no wonder he was named as one of the Hometown Heroes by the Commonwealth Games Birmingham 2022.
On his success, Jeevan said “It was an absolute privilege to learn that I had been selected as a Hometown Hero. The 14 Hometown Heroes have had incredible journeys and are all positively impacting their communities through sport and I feel honoured to be able to share the same platform as them.”
Congratulations Jeevan.