2002-2012: A decade worth remembering
Saturday morning, a church hall in Forest Gate, November 2002 - fifteen cautious, curious, even expectant eight and nine year old boys walk through Eastside’s doors for the first time, greeted by the founder, Ray Lewis……. Ten years on – City Hall, 9th floor, overlooking the spectacular London skyline, some of those same boys, now eighteen plus along with younger leaders, line the stage in front of Mr Lewis, the great and the good. We look back to see the distance travelled and are grateful for the journey.
On 13th December 2012, EYLA parents and young leaders joined guests in London’s Living Room to celebrate ten years of hard work and commitment. The event began with drinks, and the soulful tones of Metrovibe leading up to the formalities – an introduction from our Chair, Richard Atterbury, followed by Mayor Boris Johnson, who as always captivated the audience with humorous tales of his own education. He also acknowledged the aims and achievements of Eastside. Boris is always a hard act to follow but George Kamau, an Eastside Scholar rose to the challenge and spoke of his own transformation through his Eastside journey. (Transcript available
on the Director’s Blog). Ray Lewis gave a word of thanks to the academy’s many friends and supporters and finally Patrick Derham, Head Master of Rugby School delivered a moving and thought provoking conclusion.
It was a joyful occasion, a reunion of friends and associates and an opportunity for recognition of the many people who have supported Eastside over the last decade. We look forward to a new decade of endeavour and excellence.
