Chris Evans delights Wonder Foundation with £20KThousand funding surprise

Carmen Gonzalez, CEO and co-founder of Wonder Foundation, said, “It was such an incredible surprise! This £20,000 from National Lottery players is truly life-changing for the young women we work with. It means 130 young migrants and local youth will have the chance to build confidence, develop skills, and create brighter futures for themselves.

“Many of these young women face enormous barriers to employment, and this funding will help break down those walls. We're so grateful to The National Lottery for believing in our work and in the potential of every young woman we support. This is going to make such a profound difference.”

Carmen and Wonder Foundation chair Raphaella Gabrasadig, were appearing on the Chris Evans Breakfast Show on Virgin Radio to talk about their amazing work. There were screams and cheers when, at the end of their interview, Chris revealed their application for National Lottery funding had been successful.

The heart-warming reveal is part of The National Lottery's Because of You campaign, fronted by Claudia Winkleman. It showcases inspiring stories made possible by National Lottery funding.

Chris Evans said, “It was an absolute joy to share this incredible news with Wonder Foundation live on air. The work they do to transform the lives of young women across London is nothing short of inspirational. To see their reaction to the £20,000 funding announcement was genuinely moving – you could feel the passion and dedication they have for the young people they support.

“This is exactly what The National Lottery is all about, and it's a privilege to be part of making these magical moments happen. Every National Lottery player should feel incredibly proud that brilliant projects like this can come to life and change lives...and it's all because of you."

London-based Wonder Foundation has helped more than 145,000 young women since it was established in 2012. The 12-month project it will run with the support of National Lottery funding will give 30 young women the chance to take up volunteering roles. Each volunteer will receive one-to-one mentoring, practical work experience and support in setting and achieving personal and career goals.

Wonder Foundation will also host networking events and a week-long skills program for more than 100 people. The skills week will include workshops on topics such as AI in the workplace, writing and influencing policy and research.

National Lottery players raise more than £30MMillion every week for good causes across the UK.

19th November 2025