As the Vice Chair, I’ve been able to lead discussions and share ideas on developing Youth Leads UK’s strategy and policies. I have had the opportunity to represent the Youth Advisory Board at Trustee board meetings and other events. It’s been a very important role for me because I get the opportunity to advocate for youth voice and empowerment, and as a first-generation, South Asian Muslim woman, I embody the representation I wish to see in youth leadership and decision-making.
Your Role, Your Journey
Are you aged 14–25 and living, working, or studying in Greater Manchester?
We’re looking for young people who are:
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Comfortable working in a group and sharing ideas
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Passionate about youth voice, leadership, and decision-making
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Empathetic, considerate, and open to feedback
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Keen to use your own experiences to help make our charity more inclusive and accessible
You don’t need experience – just the drive to get involved. At Youth Leads UK, we’re bold, fun, empowering and community-driven. If that sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you!
As a Youth Advisory Board member, you’ll work alongside our Trustees and team to help keep Youth Leads UK youth-informed and relevant.
Your responsibilities could include:
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Giving feedback on our strategy and programmes
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Bringing your voice to key decisions and projects
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Representing Youth Leads UK at events and meetings
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Helping shape campaigns, partnerships and services
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Supporting our alumni network and external relationships
We know this sounds like a lot, but don’t worry, we’ll support you every step of the way. Your responsibilities will grow as your confidence does, and you’ll have space to lead in ways that suit you.
You’ll grow your confidence, gain leadership experience, and connect with people who care about the same things you do.
We’ll support you to:
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Build your profile as a youth leader
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Speak at events and write for Xplode Magazine
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Connect with partners and organisations
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Improve your CV and practise interview skills
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Earn certified recognition and receive a reference from us
From creative projects to strategic decisions, this is your chance to learn, lead and leave your mark.
A typical commitment for a Youth Advisory Board Member is:
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Around 3–5 hours per month
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We ask for attendance at at least three sessions a year
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Meetings usually take place in Greater Manchester (MediaCity or the city centre)
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Online resources are available where necessary
We know life can get busy, so we’ll always do our best to be flexible and keep things manageable.
After you’ve applied, here’s what you can expect from us:
- Once you submit your application, we’ll read through your answers and may invite you to a short informal chat with a member of our team.
- This isn’t an interview, it’s just a chance for us to get to know you better, and for you to ask any questions about the role or what to expect.
- We’ll let you know either way once decisions are made. And remember, we’re not looking for polished answers, just passion, potential, and people who care.
If you’re passionate about making a difference, we’ll support you every step of the way. We’re excited to hear from you!
- What if I can’t make every meeting?
That’s okay! Just let us know in advance and we’ll help you catch up. - Do I get paid?
This is a voluntary role, but we’ll cover your travel and food costs for any in-person involvement. - What if I have additional needs?
We’ll work closely with you to make sure everything is accessible and supportive. - How long does the role last?
One year, with the option to renew. - How do I apply?
Fill in the short application form on our website or send your answers to us by email. You can respond in text, video or audio – whatever works for you! - What happens after I apply?
We’ll review your answers and may invite you for a short informal chat with our team. It’s relaxed and a chance for us to get to know each other better. - Can I apply if I’ve never done anything like this before?
Yes, we love hearing from people who are just starting their youth leadership journey. All you need is passion and a willingness to take part. - What support will I get once I join?
You’ll have a named staff contact, access to mentors, and ongoing guidance throughout your time on the board. We’ll also offer training and help build your confidence. - Do I need to be available at certain times?
Most meetings take place on weekends. We’ll always give plenty of notice, and if something clashes, we’ll work with you to make sure you don’t miss out. - What if I have additional needs?
If you require any additional support, Youth Leads UK will work together with you to ensure that the Board is fully accessible and that you feel supported when undertaking YAB activities. - Is there a deadline to apply?
No, applications are rolling. You can apply at any time, and we’ll be in touch when we’re next recruiting for new members.
Key Info
Role: Youth Advisory Board Member
Time commitment: 3–5 hours/month
Location: Greater Manchester
Age: 14–25
Ready to apply?
Your application will include the following:
- Supplying some basic information about you
- Answering the following three questions:
- What do you want us to know about you?
- What do you think are the three biggest challenges facing young people today?
- What made you want to apply to be a member of the Youth Advisory Board?
You can submit your answers with text, video or audio. To make sure we treat every applicant fairly, we will stop watching, reading or listening to answers at the specified timestamps listed in the form, so make sure you keep to time.
We’ve covered all the key info on this page, but if you’re after the full role details, you can check out the full person specification here.
You can either upload files to the form by clicking below or email them to info@youthleads.uk. Recruitment for our Youth Advisory Board is ongoing and currently open.
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Further Support
If you require any support with your application, please contact any of the following staff members: Zahra at zahra@youthleads.uk or Abeer at abeer@youthleads.uk
