Alliance of Sport expands core team

The Alliance of Sport in Criminal Justice (AoS) has bolstered its core team ahead of an exciting new phase of global growth and development.

AoS, which this year will mark its 10th anniversary, works with policy-makers and practitioners across the UK and Southeast Asia to build better systems in criminal justice and sport, helping to create healthier lives and safer communities.

Its UK-wide network of 1000 member organisations and multi-agency professionals works collaboratively to share learning and good practice, improve how things are done, and create better outcomes for vulnerable individuals and communities facing complex challenges.

Now that work has commenced in Southeast Asia led by Vongthep Arthakaivalvatee, the former Deputy Secretary-General of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), who has been appointed as Senior Advisor to AoS.

Vongthep, who has also worked as Strategic Lead for the Thai justice sector, will work alongside Abigail Lanceta, the former ASEAN Head of Education, Youth and Sports Division. Abigail will lead programme delivery across several Southeast Asian nations.

James Mapstone, Chief Executive of the Alliance of Sport in Criminal Justice, said: “We are delighted to welcome Vongthep and Abigail to these important new roles, which mark the start of an exciting new era for AoS.

“I have known and worked alongside Vongthep for several years, and he is the ideal person to lead our work and growth in the ASEAN region, while Abigail’s expertise and experience mean the delivery of our programmes will be in safe hands.”

Vongthep commented: “Having known and worked closely with AoS in my previous posts, this new role enables me to help design better systems and advocate for the role of sport in youth crime prevention. This is an important step that enhances the ASEAN Culture of Prevention and people connectivity in the region.”

Look out for more details on the AoS’ expansion in the region soon, which is being supported by global partners committed to strengthening sport’s role in building safer communities and healthier lives.

To support the charity’s growth, a new Lead for Policy and Communications has also been appointed, based in the UK. Simon Lansley is a former editor and director of the UK’s national news agency, The Press Association, who for the last 13 years has been working both globally and in the UK in marketing and communications focused on sport for development. Simon is also founder and Managing Director of ConnectSport CIC, which works with Universities to train undergraduates in sport, sustainable development and media.

Simon said: “I have closely followed and supported the outstanding work of AoS for many years, so it’s a real honour to be leading its policy and communications work.

“In this time of global conflict and upheaval, it’s never been more important to unite key actors and lead the way on building better systems that help to address key social and economic challenges. I’m looking forward to helping amplify the many diverse voices across this inspiring network of people and organisations who are effecting positive change in our communities every day.”

James added: “We’ve had the pleasure of working with Simon for many years through his roles at ConnectSport CIC and the Sport for Development Coalition. As we enter an exciting new phase, we’re delighted to welcome him to the team, confident that both our voice and that of our network are in safe hands.”

About the Alliance of Sport in Criminal Justice

The Alliance of Sport in Criminal Justice is a charity working in the UK and Southeast Asia to build better systems in criminal justice and sport, creating healthier lives and safer communities. For more information visit allianceofsport.org or email [email protected]