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Academy creator defies illness to win award
A York man, who overcame a life-threatening condition, has received an award for his work finding jobs for adults with learning difficulties.
Andrew Cambridge has been recognised nationally for his work by the Barclays Trading Places Awards. Backed by the Government, the awards acknowledge those who have overcome hurdles to start a business.
In 2007, Mr Cambridge created The Blueberry Academy with friend and colleague Andy Bucklee. The company sought to find employment for people with learning difficulties by providing support and advice to other organisations.
After securing their first major contract with the Learning Skills Council, in 2008, Mr Cambridge suffered an Arterio Ventricular Malformation, which has similar effects to a serious stroke. He had to learn to walk and talk again in a lengthy spell of rehabilitation.
He still managed to turn the Blueberry Academy into a thriving business. He has also opened My Eco Caf, a healthy lifestyle caf staffed by people with learning difficulties.
Barclays marketing director for local business, John Davis, a judge on the panel, said: "We hope Andrew's story will inspire other budding entrepreneurs in York, who face similar difficulties in their private lives, to come forward and turn their own business dreams into reality."
Mr Cambridge and the other national finalists will have a chance to be named the 2009 Barclays Trading Places Winner.
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