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Nick Evans
Chief Executive Officer
Professional Background
Nick Evans is a renowned figure in the world of social advocacy, currently serving as the Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of Hopeland, an innovative non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and facilitating stable, loving family environments for children. With a deep commitment to challenging outdated systems, Nick has emerged as a Disruptor Foundation Fellow, leveraging his rich experience and insights to benefit the most vulnerable populations in society.
Nick's journey into social work began at an early age. His passion for helping others started at 17 when he volunteered at a soup kitchen in Melbourne, providing meals and support to the homeless community. This formative experience ignited a lifelong commitment to social service, which he continued when he moved to London at age 18. Here, he volunteered at the Watford New Hope Trust, an experience that profoundly shaped his understanding of how empowerment and support can help individuals rebuild their lives and rekindle their hope.
In Liverpool, Nick took on a pivotal role as an Enhanced Arrest Referral Worker with Addaction, where he made significant contributions by working directly with young individuals caught within the criminal justice system. His dedication and enthusiasm in helping young people recognize their strengths and realize their potential have marked him as a valued leader in the community. Nick's first management role came at the youthful age of 25, where he led the Young People's Arrest Referral Service, quickly followed by his promotion to Project Manager of Liverpool’s Young People's Drug & Alcohol Service by age 26. This rapid ascent is a testament to Nick's leadership abilities and relentless drive.
Furthermore, Nick's expertise has made him a sought-after speaker at numerous conferences, including the Alcohol and Anti-Social Behaviour Conference organized by the Public Policy Exchange in London. His work attracted recognition from notable political figures, such as then-Mayor of London Boris Johnson, who reached out to learn more about the impactful services he was providing. A key aspect of Nick's career has been his commitment to developing innovative services that have earned national accolades, with recognition from influential leaders such as Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, along with commendations in the ACEVO Report.
Most recently, Nick has taken his passion for advocacy to an international platform, addressing the European Parliament in Brussels on the critical issue of family separation, emphasizing its impact on children and families. As CEO of Hopeland, he continues to share his insights at various events and conferences, contributing to the discourse on social justice and child welfare.
Education and Achievements
Nick's formal education has been pivotal in shaping his approach to social services. He pursued a BA (Hons) degree in Youth and Community Studies at Liverpool John Moores University, a program that equipped him with the essential knowledge and skills needed to engage effectively with youth and community services. He then advanced his education with a Master’s degree in Pastoral Theology from Liverpool Hope University. This academic foundation has allowed Nick to combine theoretical insights with practical applications, fostering his holistic approach to community engagement and support.
Throughout his career, Nick has achieved numerous accolades for his contributions. Not only has he developed programs recognized by high-profile politicians, but he has also been at the forefront of driving change within services aimed at supporting young people. His passion for empowering those in difficult situations stems from a profound commitment to social justice and advocacy, which he continues to embody through his leadership at Hopeland.
Achievements
Nick Evans has become a beacon of hope and a catalyst for positive change within the realm of child welfare and social justice. His speaking engagements at high-impact conferences, interaction with political leaders, and recognition by esteemed organizations highlight his influence and respected voice in the sector. Through his work, he has not only inspired those around him but has also implemented sustainable practices that have changed lives for the better.
Nick’s commitment to seeing people, systems, and ideas flourish in order to help others is a central theme of his professional narrative. His drive continues to inspire countless individuals—whether they are young people seeking guidance, families looking for stability, or organizations aiming for innovative service delivery. Through Hopeland, and all of his previous roles, Nick Evans has left an indelible mark on the communities he serves, advocating for the rights and well-being of children and families across the globe.