Yvonne Lawson MBE Yvonne Lawson is a dedicated campaigner and activist who has been recognised with an MBE for her relentless efforts to combat knife crime in London. Her journey began in the wake of a personal tragedy when her son, Godwin Lawson, became a victim of the city's knife crime epidemic.
A Mother's Resolve: On March 27th, 2010, Yvonne's 17-year-old son, Godwin, was fatally stabbed while trying to protect his friends from an attack in Tottenham. Godwin, who had recently earned a scholarship from Oxford United Academy, was a promising young athlete with a bright future. His untimely death was a devastating blow to Yvonne and her family, leading her to channel her grief into meaningful action.
The Godwin Lawson Foundation: In memory of her son, Yvonne and her husband Calvin established the Godwin Lawson Foundation over a decade ago. The foundation's mission is to prevent knife crime and educate parents and communities about supporting young people vulnerable to exploitation. Through education, mentoring, and sports, the foundation provides positive initiatives aimed at keeping youth away from crime and gang lifestyles, encouraging them to reach their fullest potential.
Recognition and Impact: Yvonne was honoured at Windsor Castle by Princess Anne, where she received her MBE for her tireless campaigning. She expressed her mixed emotions on the day, feeling both humbled and reminded of the tragic reason behind her award. She dedicated the honour to her son Godwin and to all mothers who have lost their children to street violence.vonne Lawson is a dedicated campaigner and activist who has been recognised with an MBE for her relentless efforts to combat knife crime in London. Her journey began in the wake of a personal tragedy when her son, Godwin Lawson, became a victim of the city's knife crime epidemic.
Ongoing Advocacy: Despite a reduction in knife crime rates in 2022, the threat remains, and Yvonne continues her work to prevent further tragedies. She collaborates closely with schools, providing workshops and mentorship to at-risk youth. Her aim is to create a violence-free community where every young life is valued and protected.
Praise from Peers: Bruce Houlder, founder of Fighting Knife Crime, commended Yvonne’s activism, noting her significant contribution to steering young people away from crime. He emphasised the importance of collective effort in valuing and protecting the futures of young people, reflecting on Yvonne's exemplary dedication. Yvonne's Vision: Yvonne's ultimate goal is to see a community where young people can thrive and contribute positively, free from the threat of violence. Her work is a testament to her resilience and unwavering commitment to ensuring her son's death was not in vain, and to safeguarding the lives of others.
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