Amani Simpson was stabbed 7 times when he intervened in a friend’s dispute over stolen goods that quickly escalated out of control and saw him confronted by a 20-strong gang.

Since then he has dedicated his life to empowering young people through digital media, events and personal development under his social enterprise Aviard Inspires CIC.

This year, Amani produced a powerful short film about his life starring Joivan Wade (Doom Patrol, Shiro’s Story) which amassed 1 million views, in just 4 days.

Amani is using his short film and story in schools, alternative provisions and events as a tool to transform the lives of young people across the country. He has recently been named as the North London Ambassador for the Mayor of London’s ‘London Needs You Alive’ campaign and nominated for a National Diversity Award.

Now a motivational speaker and community worker, he is aiming to crowdfund £15,000 to support making a short film telling his story, as he seeks to divert teenagers away from crime.