This week on the Grass in the Sky podcast, we are joined by the inspiring Steve Smith. We discuss how his life of unrest and criminal activity led him to become an inspiring change-maker for communities and individuals across the UK.  

His parents were part of Windrush and left their children behind. It took 6 years before all the kids were back together in which time the parents had more children in the UK. This caused family tension, racism and a lot of anguish.  

Steve quickly became known as Crucial, firstly for his musical endeavours later this name would follow him into a darker chapter of gangs. From a young age, Crucial was a leader and a feared name. After his wheelchair-bound mother was punched in the face by police, Steve (Crucial) attack and injured several officers with a baseball bat thus beginning the life of crime.  

After being sentenced to a total of around 18 years, on 12 separate occasions and serving 9 and half years, Steve began to change his life. His time inside had allowed him to educate himself in areas that interested him and he quickly became respected in the community rather than feared. 

He started many business from Record Shops to Business Advice for startups but his passion and enthusiasm lay in helping others. Helping those with similar upbringings to his, kids that have been excluded by the system and society. 

Steve has worked tirelessly for years to deliver the assistance and guidance to those who need it most through an array of programmes, projects and foundations. Whether he is helping someone start their own business, community gardening, litter-picking, Steve’s goal is to help others and empower them to feel worthy. 

Steve worked for the council as community training organiser which led him to become a trainer and the Director of the National Academy of Community Organisers. Through this work Steve can carry out his wishes to help those who are dismissed feel listened to, so they can feel good about themselves and change their life for the better.  

As if all of that wasn’t enough, unfortunately Steve’s mother lost her battle with Dementia, which is why Steve is now a Dementia Champion, host sessions to help those dealing with the care of their loved one. 

What a man, what an interview. Take a listen.  

Resources mentioned:

Steve Smith 

Dementia Friends 

Nottinghamshire County Council  

National Academy of Community Organisers 

FUEL (First Universal Enterprises Limited) 

Nottinghamshire Together

Community Friendly Nottingham