[James]

Surprise in store

Sep 2 2004

By Ben Clover, Wimbledon Post



BIG Brother's Victor Ebuwa agreed to hand awards to young go-getters - after being approached in the supermarket.

The reality TV show star visited Merton College to hand certificates to youngsters who completed the Prince's Trust personal development programme.

Victor, 23, of Forest Gate, east London, revealed during his speech that he was shopping and "minding his own business" in Sainsbury's, Balham.

An organiser and some participants in the scheme walked up and asked him to speak at the ceremony.

He said: "This trust helps people find their calling. Many people just seem to think they should stick to the cards they are dealt in life. I worked hard to change mine.

"As you go through life it's like going to get a new pair of shoes. Just go try as many pairs of shoes as you can until you meet God."

The programme, known as Team, is 12 weeks long and aims to teach confidence and teamwork skills.

Roma Smith, who led the scheme, said: "We couldn't resist the opportunity to invite Victor along to our presentation.

"It's great that he's supporting the young people who have all achieved so much during the programme."

Team's activities included a week in the New Forest in Hampshire, where they built rafts and abseiled, plus a project painting the Children's Clinic at St George's Hospital in Tooting.

Team member Roisin Turner, 21, of Hamilton Road, South Wimbledon, said: "Taking part in this course has helped me improve my tolerance and communication.

"It's made me determined to do something positive with my life."

The awards ceremony took place on Wednesday last week. The Prince's Trust helps people aged between 14 and 30, particularly those who are unemployed or who may have had trouble with the law.

ic SouthLondon