Today marks the reveal of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games uniform, which will be sported by members of the Commonwealth Collective; the thousands of volunteers giving up their time to help facilitate Birmingham 2022.
As Official Overlay Supporter of the Games, GL events UK is thrilled to that several members of its workforce will be taking part in this volunteering programme. Over the coming weeks, Senior IT Analyst, Will Kibble, and Rental Operations Manager, Martin Price are set to receive their uniform.
Over 14,000 people will eventually comprise the Commonwealth Collective, with uniforms set to be worn across Birmingham, the West Midlands and even further afield. These passionate and dedicated individuals are coming together to play vital roles in helping to deliver the biggest multi-sport event in the UK since London 2012.
During Games time, these selfless volunteers will have a large presence across the region, helping to support and assist over one million people who will be visiting during the Games.
The design of the uniform involved a group of Birmingham-based students, who were inspired by Birmingham’s architecture and extensive heritage. The uniform features patterns from the Library of Birmingham, which is the largest library in Europe, and waves that were inspired by Birmingham’s Grand Central and the Bullring building. These are included on the upper body items, such as the polo shirt, gilet and waterproof jacket. In total, all volunteers in the Collective will receive two polo shirts, trousers, waterproof jacket, gilet, belt, bag and hat.
Production of the uniform has been undertaken by a local workwear company, who ensured the production process was as sustainable as possible, reiterating the aims of the Games. In line with this, excess material will be recycled into sports bibs for local schools and sports clubs, forming part of the Games’ legacy.
Uniforms Operations Manager at Birmingham 2022, Max Jimminson, commented: “The uniform reflects Birmingham’s unique history and culture, whilst also ensuring that it is comfortable and functional for all wearers to carry out their roles. We drew inspiration from local landmarks and architecture to create authentic and eye-catching designs, and to help our workforce feel a sense of connection with the city and each other, as they carry out their important roles at the Games.”
Colin Jackson, two-time Commonwealth Champion and proud supporter of the Birmingham 2022 volunteer campaign, stated: “Volunteers are the heart and soul of the Commonwealth Games and play a hugely important role in making both athletes’ and spectators’ journeys very special. They are often the first people that visitors to the city meet, and the uniforms will help them stand out from the crowd and give them that special recognition they deserve. I really hope the volunteers are as excited as I am and will wear their uniforms with pride, knowing the difference they will make as they embark on their journey with the Games.”
GL events UK wishes all members of the Commonwealth Collective every success and looks forward to following the journeys of its personnel over the months ahead.
