Brummie who rebuilt life after returning to classroom recognised at Adult Learning Awards
A Birmingham man has shown how it’s never too late to learn and make a new start despite facing a range of challenges.
Karl Wilson, aged 63, was forced to give up his successful computer business to become a full-time carer for his mum when she developed Alzheimer’s.
Things got even tougher for Karl after his mum passed away and found himself facing homelessness while suffering with depression.
But with the support of a training programme funded by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and run by Release Potential, Karl was able to turn his life around and is now using his passion for learning to inspire others in his role as a learning recruitment officer.
Karl’s resilience, determination and passion to give back has been recognised at the WMCA Adult Learning Awards 2025 where he has won the Learning for Work Award.
After being presented with his accolade at the Awards ceremony at Birmingham’s Grand Hotel, Karl said: “My mum was not just my mum – she was my friend and when I lost her I didn’t know where to turn.
“Before finding the course, I felt like I had no future. But the training with Release Potential has helped me rediscover my value and purpose.
“I now have a job I love, and I’m helping others find their path too. It’s never too late to start again.”
The Adult Learning Awards showcase the achievements of adult learners, as well as the collaborative efforts of employers and training providers working in partnership with the WMCA.
These awards underline the West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker’s commitment to making sure residents have access to high-quality skills provision and meaningful opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Ten award-winning stories have been shared through a series of compelling short films that highlight a diverse range of contributions -from individual learners and dedicated tutors to innovative skills providers and large-scale partnerships between organisations.
A further five nominees received special commendation for their outstanding impact.
West Midlands mayor Richard Parker said: “Karl’s journey is a powerful reminder that learning, coupled with the right support can unlock new beginnings and brighter futures and clearly demonstrates the life-changing impact of adult education.”
The Adult Learning Awards was hosted by award-winning BBC journalist and proud Brummy, Nicola Beckford.
Presenting the awards alongside Nicola was outstanding award-winning apprentice, Santina Bunting, one of only 150 students that embarked an apprenticeship journey straight after GCSEs in her year.
She completed her Level 3 civil engineering apprenticeship with Arup with a distinction in just two years and is now working towards her Level 6 apprenticeship at Warwick University.
She is also one of Arup’s advocates for life-long learning.
Full details of winners and individual profiles are available on the WMCA website.
2025 Adult Learning Award winners:
- Asifa Shaheen - Inspirational Learner of the Year
- Karl Wilson - Learning for Work
- Sam Hutchings - Workplace Learning Achievement
- Timothy Jackson - Skills for Life Achievement
- Alison Grade, Mission Accomplished - Inspirational Educator
- Adult Education Service Coventry City Council - Inclusive Learning Provision
- Railway Support Services Infrastructure (in collaboration with Balfour Beatty, Midlands Rail Alliance, Tended, West Midlands Trains) - Successful Partnerships
- Telford College - Engaging Adults in Learning
- BBC Studios Drama Productions - Workplace Learning Champion
- Dudley MBC & Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust - Inclusive and Innovative Recruitment and career Champion
Pictured: Karl Wilson (centre) with an Adult Learning Award for Learning for Work, presented to by Awards hosts Nicola Beckford (left) and Santina Bunting (right)
