Jack, 30 from Belfast, has been named as the winner of an award from The King’s Trust after he has transformed his life, going from living week-to-week in a highly stressed state to following his passion and setting up a sustainable clothing brand.
The King’s Trust and TK Maxx & Homesense Awards recognise young people who have succeeded against the odds, improved their chances in life and had a positive impact on their local community. Jack scooped the NatWest Thrive Enterprise Award, which recognises young people who have overcome barriers to create their own sustainable business or social enterprise through The King’s Trust Enterprise programme.
“Since getting involved with The King’s Trust, my life has changed drastically. Before, I was highly stressed, living week-to-week. Now I have structure, a five-year plan and better mental health. A weight has been lifted off my shoulders and I am now enjoying life rather than worrying about what to do next.”
From the age of 17 Jack struggled to find direction in life. As he moved from job to job, he knew deep down that he wanted to pursue a career in fashion. Whilst juggling four jobs with his studies, he found himself burning out. However, Jack’s determination, passion, and willingness to find support led him to the King’s Trust Enterprise programme. He now runs a clothing brand, WAK-O, and has a plan in place to reach his goals.
“Before starting my business, I was working in a telesales job and was feeling unfulfilled. I signed up to a textiles and fashion design course but I needed to earn money too. I ended up juggling four jobs alongside my studies and the constant grind led to burn out.
“I was desperate to follow my ambition but didn’t know how to do so without compromising my wellbeing. I didn’t have time to rest or plan for my future so I decided to leave three of my jobs and focus on starting my own business. However, I felt like I was barely getting by and struggled to gain momentum.”
It was during this time that Jack discovered Enterprise, a course run by The King’s Trust which offers support and mentorship to budding entrepreneurs. Jack signed up, hoping that it would help him turn his dream of starting a sustainable clothing brand into a reality.
“The support I received from Enterprise helped me to lay solid foundations for my business. I had the idea, I just needed support in executing it. Weekly meetings with my King’s Trust support worker helped me turn a vague idea into a structured five-year plan.”
After receiving a grant and a loan from The Trust, Jack launched WAK-O in April 2024. WAK-O, which now has its own studio space and website, is a circular, “slow-fashion” clothing brand which takes its inspiration from streetwear culture. The brand involves both new products and the reselling of pre-loved items.
“I am far more productive and have a better work-life balance since doing Enterprise. My strategising and time management have improved so I’m able to balance my work and personal life.”
Jack’s commitment to sustainability remains at the heart of the business, meaning that he upcycles old materials into new products, using pre-loved clothing and waste materials to make new products. This year, he plans to take his new stock on a UK tour of like-minded establishments and he is motivated to reach his goals.
On winning the NatWest Thrive Enterprise Award, Jack said: “To have people believe in my vision and present me with this award is an amazing feeling. The King’s Trust gave me the boost I needed to make my business a reality, and it’s brilliant to feel as though my hard work has been recognised.”
John Ferris from Ulster Bank who presented Jack with his award said: “We’re delighted to be back again this year as the proud sponsor of The King’s Trust Enterprise Award. Congratulations to Jack as this year’s winner in Northern Ireland – it is great to see their business thrive having overcome so many challenges in their journey so far. Jack is a truly deserving winner.”
Youth charity The King’s Trust gives young people the skills and confidence to get their lives on track. Three in four young people helped by The King’s Trust in the past five years have moved into work, training or education.