A project launched by Birmingham City Council to coincide with the 2022 Commonwealth Games looks to bring the city's communities together ©Birmingham 2022

Birmingham City Council are looking for the unsung heroes of the city to lead community-based projects ahead of the 2022 Commonwealth Games in a new project launched today. 

Their project, "Community Champions" looks to evoke a positive change in the communities of the city by appointing the successful nominees to liaison roles where they will work with the City Council to create a link with the people of Birmingham.

The team will be led by local volunteer, Hector Pinkney, known in his local area as "Mr Handsworth" after the area he hails from in the north of the city.

"We’re looking for community heroes," he said. 

"They could have helped a neighbour in need, coached a local sports team, or given up time their free time to help others.

"The Commonwealth Games is a chance to showcase our neighbourhood, and I know so many people who want to get involved and celebrate the Games."

Birmingham's top community workers are being asked to help benefit local people ahead of the 2022 Commonwealth Games by given them a voice to help develop activities ©Birmingham City Council
Birmingham's top community workers are being asked to help benefit local people ahead of the 2022 Commonwealth Games by given them a voice to help develop activities ©Birmingham City Council

It is claimed these unsung heroes will give the Council a better understanding of how the local communities feel ahead of the Games, due to be held between July 27 and August 7 in 2022, and will allow them to develop activities in the build up to the event.

"It is an exciting time for the city as we prepare for the Games," Councillor Ian Ward, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said.

"This initiative is a great opportunity for local people to have their voice heard and play a key part in helping to create a legacy we can be proud of.

"Hector is a true inspiration and epitomises what it is to be a community champion. 

"We want local people to embrace this opportunity and constructively address issues they feel passionately about and we will help them to champion, lead and participate in the community, and drive positive change across the region."

Those wishing to nominate themselves or their friend or family member can do so here.