Meet Anwar
Anwar Khattak is a former semi-professional footballer. He set up the Birmingham Youth Sports Academy (BYSA) in 2002 to give back to his local community. Starting with just ten children, BYSA has flourished into a vital organisation that now supports over 500 young people every week.
More than sport
BYSA significantly impacts young lives through a diverse range of services and is more than just a sports provider. Initially centred on football, BYSA has broadened its offerings to include multi-sports such as cricket, tennis, badminton, squash, basketball, hockey, boxing and fitness activities. These are open to all abilities, from fun sessions to advanced training through the BYSA Centre of Excellence.
Anwar's deep commitment to the young people and the community is evident in BYSA's expanded focus. Alongside sports, they now prioritise mentoring and coaching, offering crucial training in:
- interview skills
- first aid qualifications
- life skills
- apprenticeships and work experience opportunities
The aim is to empower young people both personally and professionally.
Making sport affordable and accessible
BYSA champions accessibility by providing sports and activities for just £1 to 2 per session. This makes sure it is affordable for families and young people who might otherwise miss out.
They cultivate community spirit and family involvement through inclusive activities for parents and children. This is also offer advice centres and drop-in services for those in need.
Their popular holiday camps during Easter, summer, and winter breaks further engage young people and strengthen community bonds.
The team also raises funds to improve local parks, make spaces more accessible and provide better facilities, including for disabled users.
Where they operate
BYSA works in some of Birmingham’s most deprived postcodes (B8, B9, B10, B11). They tackle critical issues such as:
- crime
- mental health challenges
- ADHD
- social media pressures.Anwar says BYSA is "an organisation that changes lives and saves lives.” It offers young people safe, positive alternatives and new pathways to education and employment.
Growth and challenges
To meet high demand, BYSA now operates five to six days a week. They have recently acquired their own facility.
The team is mostly made up of volunteers, but Anwar recognises the growing need for paid staff to keep up with demand.
He also points out the need for:
- affordable indoor and outdoor sports spaces
- better park facilities
- improved access for disabled users
- suitable placement of outdoor gyms
- separate spaces for different age groups
He also says there needs to be a greater understanding of community requirements.
BYSA’s significant impact has earned them widespread recognition through numerous prestigious awards, including the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, Pride of Birmingham, and the British Citizens Award.
Anwar emphasises their success stems from their approach, saying “It’s not just about football now… we’re giving back, we’re delivering, and we’re making an impact. I think why we are being successful is we are listening. We listen, we answer, and we deliver.”
Anwar says partnerships, fundraising, and consistent support play a vital role in helping BYSA grow and continue its communiuty impact.
When you meet Anwar, his passion for young people and unwavering dedication to his community shine through. He says “We have an army of volunteers delivering and making that impact… it’s all about changing lives, saving lives, and leaving a legacy!”
Page last updated: 27 May 2025
