Youth Leads has helped my social skills a lot. I didn’t think I was confident enough to speak to people and I found it hard to leave the house. Just being able to interact with people is now a lot easier. Volunteering has changed my life and now I have got a job that I love because I’ve been able to develop myself.
Your Journey
Your journey will start with an informal group meeting where you’ll get to meet other amazing young people.
You’ll then take part in a series of planning sessions, where you, amongst other young leaders, will plan the theme for the Youth Leads Magazine and our Photo Shoot.
There’ll be an opportunity to plan your social action project (this is where you and others will pick a topic that’s important to you and decide how you want to create positive change in your community).
There will be a whole host of other opportunities for you to get stuck into! For example, taking on leadership roles such as Magazine Editor, Photo Editor and Social Action Assistant – we’ll provide you with the opportunity to develop skills for your future.
You’ll also get the unique chance to get face-to-face with employers in our Industry Insight sessions. Previous hosts have provided our young leaders with the knowledge of how to create a personal brand, tips to getting into journalism as well as how to use social media to your advantage!
Finally, prompted by feedback from our past youth leaders, we now have dedicated employability sessions which equip you with the skills to ace CV and job application writing too!
Youth Leads UK can help you get your Duke of Edinburgh’s Award through volunteering. This means you can use your time on our three-month Leadership Programme towards your DofE Award.
Youth Leads UK offers mentorship opportunities to empower young people through guidance and support from experienced professionals. We provide these opportunities through partnerships and ongoing projects after the programme.
- Is it okay if I don’t know what career I want?
Absolutely! A lot of young people don’t know what they want to do just yet, and that’s totally okay. Our programme is all about helping you explore different options, build your confidence, and find out what you might be passionate about. So, don’t worry, we’re here to support you every step of the way! - Is the programme a big commitment?
We know you have lots on your plate, and we don’t want to add any stress. The programme is flexible. It’s all about helping you grow, not overwhelming you! The programme runs once a week, either on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday, from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM, so it won’t take up too much of your time. - Can I bring a friend?
Of course! You’re welcome to bring a friend along, as long as they sign up too! We want to make sure everyone who joins feels comfortable, and having a familiar face there can be a great way to start. - Will there be snacks?
You bet! We know snacks make everything better. We’ll have some tasty treats to keep you fuelled and ready to take on the session. - What if I’m nervous about attending?
It’s totally normal to feel a little nervous before starting something new. We’re here to make you feel comfortable and at ease. Our Youth Engagement Officers will be there to welcome you and guide you through every step. You’ve got this! - Do I need to have experience to join?
No experience necessary! Whether you’re new to this or have done previous programmes, we’ll meet you where you’re at and help you grow. It’s all about learning and improving, no matter where you start. - What happens after I finish the programme?
Once you’ve completed the programme, you become part of our Alumni network. You will be added to the Alumni group chat, where we will send you ongoing opportunities and initiatives for you to get involved with. You will also have a graduation celebration where you will receive a certificate and a hoodie…a nice little reminder of all the hard work you’ve put in! - Is there a dress code?
Nope! The most important thing is that you feel comfortable! There’s no formal dress code, so wear whatever helps you feel confident and ready to take on the world. - Can I attend if I have special needs or a disability?
Absolutely! We’re committed to making the programme inclusive for everyone. If you need any specific support or adjustments, just let us know when you apply, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your needs. - Will there be a group chat?
Oh, definitely! You’ll be added to a group chat where you can chat with your peers, ask questions, and stay up to date with everything happening in the programme. It’s a great way to stay connected with everyone. - What kind of support will I get during the programme?
You’ll be supported by our awesome Youth Engagement Officers! They’re here to guide you every step of the way, whether you need help with your personal goals, career advice, or just someone to chat to. They’re all about helping you get the most out of the programme. - Can I join if I’m not sure about my future?
Of course! This programme is all about helping you figure things out. If you’re feeling uncertain about your future, this is the perfect place to explore different options and discover what interests you. You don’t have to have all the answers right now. - What should I bring on the first day?
You don’t need to bring anything on the first day. Just come along and be ready to dive in! And don’t forget to bring a positive attitude. - Will we do any group activities?
Definitely! Group activities are a big part of our programme. You’ll have the chance to work with other participants, share ideas, and learn from one another. Don’t worry, it’s all about working together and having fun! - What if I miss a session?
Life happens, and sometimes you can’t make it. If you miss a session, just let us know, and we’ll help you catch up so you don’t fall behind. We’ll always keep you in the loop! - Will I get a certificate after completing the programme?
Yes! You’ll receive a certificate to show you’ve completed the programme. It’s a great addition to your CV or resume and a reminder of all the amazing work you’ve done. - Will I be able to get feedback on my progress?
Absolutely! We use a programme called STAR to track your personal progress and get to know you. You’ll also have the chance to reflect on your own progress and set goals for your personal growth. - Can I suggest new ideas or topics for the programme?
We love hearing your feedback! If you have any ideas or suggestions for topics you’d like us to cover, feel free to let us know. Your input helps us make the programme even better. - Can I get help with my CV or job applications?
Yes, we’re here to help! If you need assistance with your CV, cover letter, or job applications, we’ve got experienced staff who can guide you through the process. Just ask, and we’ll make sure you’re all set! - Will there be trips?
Yes…Industry insights! We organise trips to unique office spaces, give you insights into different industries, and help you explore possible career paths. These trips are a fantastic way to learn more about what’s out there and meet professionals in various fields.
During my time at Youth Leads, I have learned how to initiate and create change to benefit my local community, taking an idea and learning how to put it into action. Through Youth Leads, I have had the opportunity to work in a team alongside like-minded people. I have been made to feel valued, and as a result, I have become more confident sharing my thoughts and ideas with others.
Key Info
The next Leadership Programme is starting on 18th June 2025.
We'll be hosting the next programme in Trafford, Greater Manchester!
More information below.
Programme Info
Our programmes are completely free for you to take part in, and there’ll be something happening every week! The next Leadership Programmes will start on the 18th of June 2025 in Trafford, Greater Manchester! There’ll be snacks & drinks provided at every session, and we’ll support you in getting to and from sessions, including paying for your travel expenses. We host our programmes in fun, bright and interesting environments which inspire creativity and excitement. Sessions take place on Wednesday evenings between 5:30 pm & 7:00 pm.
We host leadership programmes all over Greater Manchester. Even if our next Leadership Programmes aren’t near you, be sure to leave your details below, and we’ll reach out when we’re next in your area! In the meantime, we’ll share other great opportunities to work with us.
Why not join the Leadership Programme with a friend? We’d love to meet them, too, at our introductory session. Just share this link and have them sign up with you!
INTERESTED?
Fill out the application form below to join the next programme!
