Tom Davies, midfielder for Sheffield United, has found solace and improved his mental health by launching a sustainable business venture during a challenging season. After leaving his boyhood club Everton last summer, Davies faced injury setbacks that limited him to just nine appearances as Sheffield United was relegated from the Premier League.
Davies’ business, ChopValue UK, focuses on recycling chopsticks into furniture and homeware. The venture has already collected nearly five million chopsticks and opened a micro-factory in Liverpool. Davies credits this project with providing a much-needed boost to his mental well-being during a difficult time.
In addition to the personal benefits, Davies recognizes the platform that football provides for raising awareness about important issues. He believes it is crucial for footballers to have outside interests that they are passionate about, as it not only serves as a distraction but also allows them to make a positive impact on their communities. For Davies, sustainability and mental health are two causes close to his heart.
During his injury lay-off, Davies took a sustainability course to gain a deeper understanding of the business he now manages as the franchise’s managing director. He has also made ChopValue UK a community interest company, intending to support various causes in Liverpool. Homeless charities, mental health organizations, and Everton in the Community are among those that will benefit from the company’s income.
Davies believes that his business venture has not only provided a distraction from the challenges of professional football but has also given him a sense of purpose and fulfillment. By contributing to sustainability efforts and supporting important causes, he feels that he is living a good life and making a positive difference. This experience highlights the importance of footballers having diverse interests and utilizing their platforms to promote meaningful issues.
In conclusion, Tom Davies’ sustainable business venture has not only helped him cope with the difficulties of his football career but has also allowed him to make a positive impact on his community. By focusing on sustainability and mental health, Davies has found a sense of purpose and fulfillment outside of the football pitch. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of pursuing outside interests and using one’s platform to promote important causes.