Cardiff City FC Community Foundation wins Best Social Impact Initiative Award
Bluebirds Charity has been recognised for Social Impact at the 2025 WSA Sports Industry Awards, highlighting its £33.4m impact and life-changing work across South Wales.
Gavin Hawkey will step down as Director of Cardiff City FC Community Foundation during July to take up a new role as the first Managing Director of the Central South Active Partnership.
Since joining the Community Foundation in 2015, Gavin has played a central role in growing our reach and impact, helping to change lives and transform communities through the power of football.
Under his leadership, the Community Foundation has supported thousands of children, young people and families, built strong community partnerships, and most recently reported an estimated social impact of £33.4 million.
Reflecting on his time at the Foundation, Gavin said:
“It’s been a privilege to lead the Community Foundation over the past ten years. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together — not just the programmes we’ve delivered, but the relationships we’ve built. Football has a unique power to bring people together, and I’ll always be grateful for the opportunity to be part of something that genuinely changes lives.”
Leighton Andrews, Chair of Cardiff City FC Community Foundation, said:
“The success of the Foundation is in very large part due to the hard work and leadership that Gavin has shown over the last decade. The Foundation has achieved so much in demonstrable and practical terms, and grown in range of activity, reach and depth of understanding among key communities. It is now well respected and a partner of choice for key stakeholders. Fans are far more aware of the Foundation, and our media profile has grown significantly. The Club can be proud of its Foundation.”
Chair Designate, Andrew Diplock added:
“Gavin has created a strong and values-led organisation that’s built on trust, collaboration and real impact. He leaves the Foundation in a fantastic position for the future. While we’ll miss his leadership, we’re excited to build on his legacy and continue driving our mission forward.”
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Gavin for his invaluable contribution and leadership and wish him continued success in his new role.
The Board of Cardiff City FC Community Foundation will be meeting on 15 May when it will discuss proposals for future leadership.
