Founder & Visionary Behind Resonates Well CIC and UGCY
In 2023, I founded Resonates Well, a social enterprise dedicated to harnessing the transformative power of gospel choir singing to foster mental well-being and build supportive communities among students. Resonates Well was inspired by the incredible journey and success of our flagship program, the University Gospel Choir of the Year (UGCY), which I launched in 2011.
The Birth of UGCY and Its Impact
The story of Resonates Well begins with UGCY, a national gospel choir competition that I founded in 2011. Over the years, UGCY has grown into one of the most anticipated events in the UK’s university calendar, drawing together talented choirs from across the country. However, beyond the music and the competition, UGCY uncovered something profound: the powerful sense of community, belonging, and emotional support that gospel choir singing could provide to students.
Through UGCY, I witnessed firsthand how participating in a choir could uplift spirits, build confidence, and foster lasting friendships among students. The competition became more than just a showcase of talent—it became a movement that touched the lives of thousands, creating a ripple effect of positivity and mental well-being.
Inspiration for Resonates Well
The success and impact of UGCY planted the seeds for Resonates Well. I realized that the sense of community and emotional support fostered through gospel music could be extended beyond the competition format, providing ongoing support to students who often face challenges of loneliness, stress, and mental health issues during their university years.
Resonates Well was born out of this vision—to create a platform where the joy and power of gospel music could be used as a tool to enhance student well-being on a broader scale. By transitioning from an annual competition to a year-round initiative, Resonates Well aims to make a lasting impact on the lives of students across the UK.
Our Mission
At Resonates Well, our mission is clear: to create inclusive, student-led communities where the joy of gospel music can flourish. We believe that through the collective experience of choir singing, students can find not just a voice, but a supportive network that helps them navigate the challenges of university life. Our programs are designed to address the growing mental health concerns among students, providing them with a safe space to express themselves, connect with others, and grow both personally and emotionally.
OUR PROGRAMS
Building on the success of our student programs, we launched the Asaph Program, a corporate choir initiative. This program is designed to bring the benefits of choir singing into the corporate world, enhancing team cohesion, bridging generational divides, and promoting well-being in the workplace. Through the Asaph Program, we creatively combine the enthusiasm and fresh perspectives of university gospel choir students with the seasoned expertise of corporate teams.
Our flagship program, UGCY, continues to bring together university choirs from across the UK, fostering a sense of community and showcasing the immense talent of young people. Through UGCY, we have reached thousands of students, helping them to build confidence, forge meaningful relationships, and find a sense of belonging.
OUR IMPACT
Since its inception, Resonates Well has continued to build on the foundation laid by UGCY, reaching students across the UK and now expanding into the corporate sector with the Asaph Program. Through our initiatives, we've seen participants gain confidence, build lasting friendships, and experience a profound sense of belonging. The impact of our work is reflected in the testimonials we receive, with many participants describing their involvement as life-changing.
Why Gospel Music?
Gospel music, with its rich history and powerful messages, offers a unique blend of artistic expression and emotional release. It's not just about singing—it's about coming together as a community, supporting one another, and creating something beautiful that resonates on a deeper level. This communal experience is at the heart of Resonates Well, and it’s what makes our approach to mental well-being so effective.
Looking Ahead
As I continue to lead Resonates Well, I am excited about the future and the potential to expand our reach even further. We are constantly exploring new ways to enhance our programs and create more opportunities for students and professionals alike to engage with music, improve their well-being, and build meaningful connections.
JOIN US
If you're interested in learning more about Resonates Well or getting involved, I invite you to visit our website or reach out directly. Together, we can continue to make a difference in the lives of students and professionals through the powerful medium of music.
FIND OUT MORE
Visit our UGCY website: www.ugcy.co.uk