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Meet Phil and the Phoenix Squad: Star Wars Fans Making a Difference for Brainkind

The Phoenix Squad isn’t your typical group of Star Wars enthusiasts. Inspired by the iconic A-wing elite unit from the Star Wars universe, this team of dedicated fans has turned their passion for the galaxy far, far away into a force for good. Phoenix Squad combines movie-accurate costumes with a commitment to raising funds for charities, including Brainkind.

The group includes five directors and three trustees, each with their own unique roles in organising events, coordinating appearances, and managing logistics. But their mission goes beyond dressing as Stormtroopers and X-wing pilots. By creating inclusive, family-like experiences, Phoenix Squad supports causes close to their hearts, such as Brainkind, while bringing joy to fans of all ages.

Here, Phil talks about the squad’s origins, their connection to Brainkind, and what it’s like to be a part of this inspiring collective.

What is the Phoenix Squad, and how did it all begin?

Phoenix Squad was born out of the ashes of a previous Star Wars costuming group many of us were part of. The previous group had its final event in February 2023, and at a farewell party afterwards, a few of us decided to start our own squad.

By April, we had officially launched Phoenix Squad. It took a lot of work—setting up as a registered company, getting public liability insurance, conducting health and safety risk assessments, and recruiting members—but it was worth it. The name Phoenix represents rising from the ashes of the previous group, and our goal was to carry forward the best parts of what we’d learned, while improving on other areas.

What roles do you and your team members play in the squad?

We all have specific responsibilities. I’m one of two events coordinators, so I organise venues, scout locations, and ensure accessibility. My partner, Kate Reed handles the admin and treasurer role. Along with taking minutes at our monthly committee meetings and keeping us on track. Others manage branding, merchandise, recruitment and marketing. We’re a well-organised team, and we already have events booked through 2025!

How did you come to support Brainkind?

When we were setting up Phoenix Squad, we wanted to choose a charity to support. My sister, Emily Blackburn, is a service manager at Brainkind’s Daniel Yorath House. She told me about the amazing work Brainkind does, and I brought the idea to our committee. It was an easy decision—it’s personal to me, and we were all impressed by what we learned.

We visited Daniel Yorath House, met with the Brainkind team, and saw their work firsthand. It’s incredible to see the difference they make in people’s lives, and we’re proud to support them.

Why is fundraising important to the squad?

We don’t just dress up for fun—we want to make a difference. Raising money for Brainkind helps us do that. Plus, when we’re out at events, seeing kids’ faces light up when they meet their favourite Star Wars characters makes it even more rewarding.

What’s it like to appear at events?

It’s incredible. We put a lot of effort into our kits, which are as close to movie accurate as possible. When we’re in costume, we try to stay in character too—it adds to the experience. For example, as an Imperial Officer, you don’t smile because the character wouldn’t. As a TIE pilot, I’ll often play along and interact with kids or try to make an officer break character, which is always fun.

We’ve also had memorable moments, like seeing kids arrive in homemade Star Wars costumes. I always make a point to talk to them and share tips, it’s great to see their enthusiasm.

What motivates you to keep going?

Being part of Phoenix Squad has done a lot for me personally. After losing a close friend, I struggled with mental health, but joining this community brought me out of my shell. The squad feels like a family, and it’s rewarding to be part of something that helps others while creating meaningful connections.

Speaking of family. We encourage our members who have children. To get their kids involved in the squad. Either as characters or crew. We have a few under 18s in the squad, all excelling at what they do. Interacting with the public and being part of a good cause, helps to develop our younger members as people. They’re all wonderful additions to the squad.

We have other adult members who have mental health issues. And joining Phoenix Squad has helped them to steadily overcome these issues. They’ll be the first to say that.

We really are an inclusive, family-friendly squad and that’s why I love it.

What events do you have coming up?

We’ve got a busy schedule! We’ll be at various venues throughout Yorkshire. Including Broadway Shopping Centre in Bradford, Leeds Trinity, Piece Hall in Halifax. Plus many more! And some brand-new venues for 2025.

How has Brainkind supported you?

Brainkind has been fantastic—they’ve provided us with branding materials and supported us during events like the York Racecourse fundraiser. Their staff are amazing, and it’s great to work with such a dedicated team.

What’s next for Phoenix Squad?

We’re always looking to grow and improve. We’re already planning for 2025, with more events and ways to raise awareness and funds for Brainkind. We also want to keep building our inclusive, welcoming community, where everyone—whether they’re fans, volunteers, or people we support—feel they belong.

If you’re looking for a charity for your organisation to support this year, please consider choosing Brainkind as your Charity of the Year, so that we can continue our mission to ensure that everyone can thrive after a brain injury. Find out more here.

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