The visionary woman creating space for disabled kids to play | Ep1 | The Purpose Pioneers

What if every child had the chance to move, play and thrive — no matter their ability?

In the first episode of The Purpose Pioneers, the new podcast series from Positive News, we meet Stephanie Wheen, CEO and founder of Gympanzees – a groundbreaking organisation creating the UK’s first fully inclusive exercise and play centre for disabled children and young people.

More than one in 10 children in the UK are disabled, yet most are still excluded from mainstream leisure centres, sports facilities and play spaces. Gympanzees exists to change that reality. Located near Bristol, the space is designed from the ground up for children with physical, sensory and intellectual disabilities, while also welcoming siblings, friends and carers.

In this conversation with Positive News’ Sarah LaBrecque, Stephanie reflects on three defining moments in her journey – from growing up with a disabled brother, to the turning point where frustration transformed into action, and the joyful breakthrough that showed inclusive spaces can change lives.

She talks through the practical steps that turned an idea into a viable, values-led organisation, alongside the challenges of building something new within existing systems and the rewards of seeing children gain independence and confidence through movement and play.

The episode explores what it takes to turn purpose into action, and how thoughtful design, ethical finance and long-term thinking can help create spaces where everyone belongs.

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The Purpose Pioneers is a new podcast series from Positive News about the journey of turning ideals into action.

Producer: Simon Elliott, Crowdfindervideo
Host and story editor: Sarah LaBrecque
Series editor: Tom Pattinson
Production lead: Pauline Milligan
Executive producer: Sean Wood

The Purpose Pioneers is sponsored by Triodos Bank, a bank for people and organisations who want to create positive impact.

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