Reece, aged 19, from Doncaster, has been named as the winner of an award from The King’s Trust after overcoming his struggle to communicate and going on to thrive in education.

The King’s Trust and TK Maxx Awards recognise young people who have succeeded against the odds, improved their chances in life and had a positive impact on their local community.

Reece scooped the Tesco Education Award which recognises a young person who has demonstrated significant personal growth and overcome barriers to improve their future.

Reece has autism and a speech impediment, and was not confident in his speaking, planning or writing abilities.

The King’s Trust Education award winner, Reece, with Andrea Casey, Stores Director at Tesco.

placeholder image — The King’s Trust Education award winner, Reece, with Andrea Casey, Stores Director at Tesco.

He was unaware of how to match his own skills with careers and opportunities, so enrolled onto The King’s Trust Achieve programme, which helped him to improve both his communication skills and ability to work in a team after interacting with lots of different people.

Following his success on the programme, Reece presented his work to His Majesty King Charles III, and also attained qualifications such as a Level 2 Functional Skills in Maths and IT.

Reece now is working alongside the MP for Doncaster Central Sally Jameson and has been invited to visit the Houses of Parliament.

On winning the Tesco Education Award, Reece said: “Thank you for this incredible honor. It’s a powerful reminder that hard work can play off.”

Andrea Casey, from Tesco, presented Reece with his award, and said: “A huge congratulations to Reece. You have shown incredible resilience to get to this point, and we can’t wait to see what you do next.”

Now, Reece is in with a chance to become a National King’s Trust Award winner at a very special event in May 2026. A King’s Trust Celebration in partnership with TK Maxx will spotlight winners from across the UK.

Held at the iconic Royal Albert Hall, this special evening will bring music, comedy, awards, and unforgettable performances together. The night will celebrate the courage, creativity, and achievements of young people supported by The King’s Trust in the UK and around the world.

Youth charity The King’s Trust gives young people the skills and confidence to get their lives on track. Three in four young people helped by The King’s Trust in the past five years have moved into work, training or education.

With almost a million young people not in work, education or training, the Trust is committed to ending youth unemployment so that every young person has the opportunity to succeed.