Surrey children’s charity named winner of Allianz international award and receives €10,000 in funding

Allianz UK is pleased to announce F6IT as the UK winner of its prestigious Unity Awards.

As part of Allianz’s Power of Unity programme, the company received applications from across the globe for the Unity Awards, showcasing inspiring stories of individuals and groups who are using sport as a tool to break barriers and foster belonging.

The judging panel, which consisted of Allianz representatives and former sports champions, chose three winners from the UK, Egypt and Spain.

Winning UK charity F6IT is a family-centred organisation in south west Surrey which seeks to model true inclusion, bringing all children and young people together rather than segregating on the basis of ability. The charity runs an accessible and inclusive project in the local community delivering support, fitness, clubs and leisure activities for children and young people with disabilities and additional needs, so that they are able to participate and enjoy activities alongside family and friends.

As winners of the prestigious international award, F6IT will receive Allianz Unity branded clothing and 10,000 Euros (approx £8,700) in financial support for their project.

F6IT founder, Anel van der Merwe, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to win the Allianz Unity awards. We’re currently supporting 250 families across Surrey and beyond but our ambition is to increase that provision to at least 1000 families. The prize from Allianz will most definitely help us to reach more children and young people with disabilities and additional needs, and offer even more activities to them.”

Carolyn Rich, Director of Brand, Allianz UK commented: “We are delighted to recognise the incredible achievements of F6IT with the Unity Awards. Through their initiatives, they have created inclusive sports opportunities for children in the UK, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment within their communities.

She added: “Sport is so much more than a game. It is a powerful force for inclusion, resilience, and hope. The efforts of F6IT exemplify the Power of Unity by building togetherness.”

Why it matters

The Unity Awards reflect Allianz’s belief in the power of sport to bring people together. Allianz is a global partner of the Olympic and Paralympic Movements, including the upcoming Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games, and this is just one of many sports partnerships worldwide. Through these collaborations, Allianz supports initiatives that promote connection, inclusion, and resilience through sport.

Launched in 2024, the Power of Unity program builds on this commitment by helping individuals and communities engage more constructively in the face of growing polarisation. Through research, learning initiatives, and programs like the Unity Awards, Allianz is amplifying the voices of those who are bridging divides and fostering a stronger, more united world.