Ming Evans, Smiths
Ming Evans shares what it means to her to see her nominated charity, Drive Forward, selected for Smiths Foundation funding.
Based in the UK, the Drive Forward supports care leavers aged 16 to 25, helping them move into education, training and employment.
Reflecting on the impact of the charity, Ming said: “Through tailored, one-to-one guidance, DFF builds trust and helps young people move into education, training and meaningful work.
“I first met the charity at an event in London in 2025, attended by several Smiths colleagues.
“Hearing care leavers share their stories of adaptability and resilience made me want to do more.
“DFF has already created successful pathways into construction and hospitality.
“The charity is now developing an ambitious STEM Pathway to help care leavers explore STEM careers and secure sustainable, long-term jobs.
“Thanks to Smiths Foundation funding, Drive Forward has the ability to support up to an estimated 200 young people over two years across the programme, including the new STEM route.”
The Smiths Foundation awards grants to charitable organisations nominated by Smiths employees, supporting causes that align with our purpose of engineering a better future.
Since its launch in 2023, the Foundation has awarded approximately £3 million in funding to 32 charities across 16 countries.
Find out more about the Smiths Foundation
