REBUILD AND REFRESH: YOUNG LEADERS TRANSFORM YOUTH LEADS UK’S LEADERSHIP PROGRAMMES

Young people have reimagined the future of leadership development at Youth Leads UK, following an inspiring residential retreat in the great outdoors at the Anderton Centre.

Eighteen young people took part in Youth Leads UK’s first-ever residential trip, contributing their insights to help shape the next iterations of our leadership programmes. Our Programmes, which focus on confidence-building, skills development, and youth influence, are now being refreshed with input from the very young people they serve. 

Blending outdoor adventure with strategy, young people completed team-building activities, learned how to survive in the wilderness with minimal equipment, how to kayak on open waters, and reflected on their journeys by the campfire. 

Throughout the retreat, young people explored key questions:

• How do we create meaningful peer connections?
• What do young people really need from a leadership programme?
• How can we measure impact in ways that matter to young people?

Their answers, thoughts, and opinions will directly influence the design and delivery of all Youth Leads UK programmes, ensuring they remain youth-led and responsive to the needs of those we serve. 

The setting played a powerful role. Surrounded by nature and away from everyday distractions, the young people felt inspired, energised, and more connected than ever.

Zenab, 17, a young person from Bolton and Youth Leads UK Alumni, said:

“I was having so much fun that I barely used my phone throughout the weekend! It was a great way to relax after I had my exams. I think one thing that surprised me was how welcoming everyone was and how close everyone became, even though we had just met. Our input will strengthen the programmes and make them more relevant and impactful for future young people. I’m very grateful that I got to go on this amazing trip.”

Raza, 17, a young person from Bolton and Youth Leads UK Alumni, said:

“I feel like an adventurous trip like this really improved my teamworking skills! One thing I appreciate about Youth Leads is how they engage young people through events and opportunities like these, allowing us to build our network and bond. It was inspiring to hear everyone’s unique ideas, and I enjoyed how it created space for other young people to share openly.”

Saeed Atcha MBE DL, CEO and Founder of Youth Leads UK, said:

“Young people should be in charge of shaping what leadership looks like. From navigating open water to reshaping our programmes, they stepped up with ideas, honesty and heart. We’re building the future with them, not for them.”

This retreat marks a bold step forward for Youth Leads UK, placing young people firmly in the driving seat of development. With fresh thinking, stronger bonds and inspiring ambassadors, the organisation is moving towards refreshing its strategy, powered by the young people it supports.