Race Across the World winner Owen Wood has been confirmed for a new role in the wake of his appearance on the show.
Owen and his best friend Alfie triumphed on the recent fourth season of the BBC show as they raced from Japan to Indonesia against four other teams.
The star has now been confirmed as an ambassador for digital charity The Mix, which offers non-judgemental, free, confidential and anonymous support for under-25s on many issues, including mental health, financing and housing.
Related: Race Across the World fans stunned as stars make nightmare travel mistake again
Owen opened up about his own mental health struggles on Race Across the World, and will use the role to speak about his experiences, advocating for young men to open up and have regular check-ins with friends. He will also appear as a guest on the charity’s new podcast.
“The opportunity to work with The Mix came up and I couldn’t say no as they are a great outlet of information and support for young people who may need help and advice,” Owen said.
“This is exactly the kind of initiative I would have benefitted from when I was younger and having struggles with anxiety, school and overall life, so to be a part of this and be able to help others who are in the position I was in, is something I take great pride in.”
Amy Cowley, The Mix’s head of marketing and communications, added: “We are very excited to welcome Owen to The Mix family.
Related: Race Across the World‘s Betty shares challenges of health condition on show
“His experience and dedication to mental health awareness align perfectly with our mission to support and empower young people. Owen’s story and commitment to our cause will inspire many and help us reach even more young people in need.”
Owen and Alfie became fan favourites during their time on Race Across the World, while also making history as the show’s youngest-ever winners.
The latest season became the most widely-watched BBC Factual title of the year so far after more than 7 million watched the first two episodes over 28 days on BBC iPlayer.
Race Across the World airs on BBC One and streams on iPlayer.
If you’ve been affected by the issues raised in this story, organisations who can offer support include the NHS, Samaritans on 116 123 or Mind on 0300 123 3393. Readers in the US are encouraged to visit mentalhealth.gov.
Sam is a freelance reporter and sub-editor who has a particular interest in movies, TV and music. After completing a journalism Masters at City University, London, Sam joined Digital Spy as a reporter, and has also freelanced for publications such as NME and Screen International. Sam, who also has a degree in Film, can wax lyrical about everything from Lord of the Rings to Love Is Blind, and is equally in his element crossing every ‘t’ and dotting every ‘i’ as a sub-editor.