The Life and Impact of Tayshan Hayden-Smith: From Footballer to Community Leader
Tayshan Hayden-Smith is an influential British community activist, environmental visionary, and the founder of Grow to Know, a not-for-profit collective focused on social and environmental change. With a background in professional football and a passion for activism, Tayshan’s journey is an inspiring tale of resilience, healing, and community transformation. In this article, we will explore Tayshan’s personal life, his career, and his dedication to changing the world through creative nature-based solutions.
Early Life and Football Career
Tayshan Hayden-Smith was born and raised in Ladbroke Grove, London. His early life was shaped by the vibrant multicultural environment of West London, where he found his passion for football. Tayshan’s football journey began at a young age, where his talent quickly became evident. He played for various youth clubs before being signed to notable professional football clubs such as Queens Park Rangers (QPR), Brentford, and Newcastle United. His career also led him to play for F.C. Eurotours Kitzbühel in Austria.
Despite his potential, Tayshan’s football career was short-lived. At the age of 23, he transitioned away from football after experiencing the emotional toll of the Grenfell Tower fire in 2017. This tragedy had a profound impact on him, leading to his shift from a career in football to one dedicated to activism, community building, and environmental change.
Personal Tragedy and Transition to Activism
The Grenfell Tower fire, which tragically claimed the lives of 72 people, marked a turning point in Tayshan’s life. In the aftermath of the fire, he sought healing through guerrilla gardening, a form of activism where individuals transform neglected urban spaces into green sanctuaries. For Tayshan, gardening became not only a way to deal with personal grief but also a means of bringing the community together.
Tayshan’s mother, who passed away in 2020, was a significant influence on his life and his connection to nature. Raised by his mother in a multicultural environment, Tayshan developed a strong sense of empathy, which he later channelled into his environmental work. His father, who was of Jamaican and Italian heritage, was not a central figure in his upbringing, yet his diverse heritage shaped Tayshan’s perspective on inclusivity and social justice.
Founding Grow to Know
In 2019, Tayshan founded Grow to Know, an organisation dedicated to transforming urban spaces through community-driven gardening and environmental activism. The organisation aims to bring together people from all walks of life to create sustainable green spaces in urban environments. Through Grow to Know, Tayshan has partnered with notable organisations such as Nike, Penguin Random House, and the Natural History Museum to collaborate on projects that address social and environmental challenges.
Under Tayshan’s leadership, Grow to Know has become a catalyst for change. The organisation’s work is based on the principle that nature-based solutions can heal communities, promote well-being, and foster a sense of belonging. Through creative collaborations and community outreach, Tayshan is making strides in shifting cultural behaviours to encourage sustainable living.
Tayshan’s Role as an Ambassador and Public Figure
As a highly respected environmental advocate, Tayshan has taken on several ambassadorial roles. He is currently an ambassador for the RHS (Royal Horticultural Society), The Conduit Club, Earthed, and the Tree Council. His role as an ambassador is pivotal in inspiring young people and communities to embrace gardening, environmental stewardship, and sustainability.
Tayshan’s work as a public figure extends beyond his advocacy for the environment. He has appeared on BBC’s Your Garden Made Perfect, Gardeners’ World, The One Show, and Channel 5’s Nick Knowles’ Better Homes. These appearances have helped to further amplify his message, reaching a wider audience and inspiring others to take action in their communities.
Personal Life: Tayshan Hayden-Smith’s Family
Tayshan’s family background plays a significant role in shaping his activism and commitment to social justice. His mother, who was of Egyptian-Kuwaiti descent, instilled in him a deep love for nature and a strong sense of compassion. His father, of Jamaican-Italian heritage, influenced his view of diversity and inclusion. Tayshan is the eldest of four siblings, and his upbringing in a multicultural environment has influenced his commitment to making green spaces accessible to all communities, regardless of background or socio-economic status.
While Tayshan keeps much of his personal life private, it is known that he is a father. His children, Luca and Jazz, are a central part of his life. He often reflects on the lessons his mother taught him and applies them to his own parenting, particularly when it comes to fostering a love for nature and the outdoors.
Tayshan’s Vision for the Future
Tayshan’s vision for the future revolves around the idea of creating spaces where both people and the planet can thrive. Through his work at Grow to Know, he continues to advocate for community-driven change, focusing on the power of creativity and nature-based solutions to solve pressing social and environmental issues.
One of his major projects is the transformation of Maxilla Bays 17-19 in North Kensington into a multipurpose creative hub. This project, led by the youth-led non-profit Maxilla City CIC, uses a co-design approach, involving the local community in the decision-making process. Tayshan believes that by involving the community, people will feel more invested in the spaces they help create.
Conclusion
Tayshan Hayden-Smith’s journey from aspiring footballer to renowned community activist is a testament to his resilience and commitment to making a positive impact in the world. His work through Grow to Know, his role as an ambassador, and his advocacy for sustainable urban spaces are transforming communities and inspiring individuals to take action for the environment. Tayshan’s personal story, shaped by his experiences with loss, trauma, and injustice, continues to motivate others to embrace creativity, empathy, and environmental stewardship in their own lives.
