Charity CEO fights fears to take a leap of faith
On Sunday 28th June, Emma Edwards, Chief Executive of Esteem, a youth charity based in Shoreham-by-sea, will abseil 410 feet from the top of the Brighton i360 to raise vital funds and awareness to highlight the charity’s impactful work.
Esteem supports young people aged 14 to 26 from all walks of life navigate some of life's toughest challenges, from poor mental health and isolation, to barriers in education and employment. Through group activities, mentoring and 1-2-1 support, Esteem helps young adults build confidence and lasting self-esteem and, in turn, builds stronger communities.
Emma, who has worked for Esteem since 2018 and took over as CEO in September 2025, agreed to take on the challenge despite a fear of heights. She said:
"We're often asking our supporters to take on challenges to raise money for us so it seems only right that we ask the same of ourselves."
The abseil is being organised by the Focus Foundation and Emma was generously gifted the chance to take part.
She continued: "Esteem is a community where young adults can connect, grow and thrive. It exists to provide something I believe every young person should have; a consistent, welcoming, youth-led space where they can feel safe, build trust and discover their strengths. From there, everything else becomes possible; connection, confidence, wellbeing and purpose.
"I see the difference our work makes all the time. I hear directly from young adults about the impact it’s had on their lives and I get to see that transformation up close.
"They step outside their comfort zones every day, so it feels only right that I do the same and take on something that pushes me too!"
Donations can be made to Emma’s fundraising page at www.justgiving.com/page/emma-edwards-esteem
To find out more about the support available from Esteem or the work of the charity, email hello@esteem.org.uk or call 01273 091511 or 07490 447333. Young adults aged 14-26 can self-refer via the link on the Esteem website www.esteem.org.uk
