West Ham United and Fatima Whitbread MBE marking World Book Day 2025 (6 March) by donating a book to every primary school in the London Borough of Newham.
The Club is teaming up with Hammers fan, Olympic legend and author Whitbread to distribute copies of her children's book 'My Bright Shining Star', an inspirational and heartwarming story about the life of a young girl growing up in the care system.
Drawing directly from Whitbread’s own childhood experiences in care, 'My Bright Shining Star' is a poignant tale about resilience, hope, and the transformative power of self-belief and support from those around us. It delivers a powerful message to children that no matter their background or circumstances, they have the strength within to overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams.
The 1984 and 1988 Olympic javelin medalist, 1987 World Champion and 1986 European Champion said said: “I am absolutely thrilled to work with West Ham United to share ‘My Bright Shining Star’ with primary school children across Newham. Books have the power to inspire, comfort, and teach us valuable lessons about life. My hope is that every child who reads this story feels a little more confident in themselves and their ability to shine.
“As someone who's supported West Ham for years, it means a lot to see the Club giving back to the community by sharing my book with primary schools in Newham."
West Ham United has a long history of using the power of football to inspire and engage young people, delivering a range of education-focused programmes that promote academic achievement, well-being, and personal development through its Foundation. As part of the Premier League Primary Stars initiative, the Club works with over 40 primary schools annually, offering literacy-themed activities such as Footy Phonics, to help pupils master reading fundamentals; Writing Stars, which encourages creative writing and teamwork; and Reading Stars, a ten-week programme designed to build confidence and foster a lifelong love of reading.
The Club’s commitment to supporting education and youth development is at the heart of this initiative. By donating Fatima’s book to schools across the borough, the Club aims to inspire young readers and highlight the importance of storytelling as a tool for growth and empowerment.
West Ham United's Director of Safeguarding & Inclusion Jackie Ferdinand said: “The Club and Foundation have a rich history of identifying opportunities and collaborating with others to amplify the voices of children with care experience and care leavers. Their primary goal is to ensure meaningful, equitable, and sustainable engagement that enables all children to thrive. Fatima's book delivers a powerful message to all children: they are valued, they have a voice, and they should dream big. Through the donation of books to schools and libraries, we want to ensure that every child is seen and feels visible and recognises their self-worth. The book also celebrates the profound impact and essential work of foster families, inspiring those who are considering fostering to take that significant step.”
Deputy Mayor of Newham and Cabinet Member for Environment, Sustainable Transport, Children Services and Education Cllr Sarah Ruiz said: “We are delighted that West Ham United are providing a copy of Fatima's Book to all Newham Primary Schools. Fatima's insightful and creative book tells a story of how care experienced children can be nourished by the warmth and hope provided by carers.
“Fatima is an Ambassador for Care Experienced young people and works tirelessly to ensure that we adopt an inclusive approach to all our children. Her book will further enhance their learning and encourage discussion.”
World Book Day, celebrated annually, promotes the importance of reading for pleasure, particularly among children and young people. West Ham United is proud to use this global moment to continue building meaningful connections within its local community and support the next generation in Newham.
