Changing the Game: an Industry Insight Session with Stacey Copeland
Youth Leads UK’s young people were joined by former athlete and radio host Stacey Copeland for an inspiring Industry Insight session that explored resilience, non-linear career pathways, and the power of perseverance.
Stacey shared how hard work and resilience shaped her journey into professional sport. From a young age, she was passionate about football but faced barriers due to the sport being stereotypically male-dominated. Rather than being discouraged, Stacey used these challenges as motivation.
Her determination led her to represent England Under-18s, launching a successful football career that saw her play in the Premier League for Doncaster Belles, Manchester City, and Tranmere Rovers. She also gained international experience, playing professionally in the USA and Sweden, and was recognised for her talent with awards including Division One Player of the Year.
Stacey then spoke about her transition into boxing, demonstrating how skills developed in one career can translate into another. Starting as an amateur, she quickly rose through the ranks to become a silver medallist and made history in 2018 as the first British woman to win the Commonwealth title.
Her story highlighted that career paths are rarely linear, and that resilience, discipline, and self-belief can lead to success across multiple industries.
Despite facing ongoing challenges as a woman in the sports industry, Stacey remained committed to driving positive change. Her experiences inspired her to found the Pave the Way project, an initiative working with communities and businesses to challenge sexist stereotypes and promote equality.
Stacey also showed young people how her confidence, communication skills, and lived experience opened doors beyond sport. She now works as a radio broadcaster for BBC Radio Manchester and as a commentator for FightZone TV and BBC iPlayer, highlighting the wide range of career pathways that can grow from a single passion.
During the session, Stacey led a reflective activity called ‘Positive Petrol Pumps’, encouraging young people to think about their own journeys, motivations, and future goals. The activity created space for honest reflection, peer support, and shared learning, as young people discussed challenges they have faced and explored practical ways to overcome obstacles together.
A young participant on the Leadership Programme said:
“I can confidently say that this was one of the best sessions ever. I was so inspired by hearing about Stacey’s story and learning more about the sports industry. I appreciated how her session showed an authentic side of herself and how, despite some difficulties, she managed to come out on top.”
Stacey Copeland, Broadcaster & Commentator, said:
“I loved running this session as part of a brilliant partnership between Youth Leads and Tales to Inspire. It’s been great to see young people getting the encouragement and opportunities they need to reach their potential in this programme. Thanks to all the young people involved and to team Youth Leads for making these programmes possible!”
Saeed Atcha MBE DL, Founder and CEO of Youth Leads UK, said:
“At Youth Leads UK, we believe in resilience and the power of overcoming adversity. Stacey’s story powerfully highlighted the importance of perseverance and pushing forward, even when faced with challenges. I’m incredibly inspired by her honesty and willingness to share her journey with our young people. Stories like Stacey’s have the power to spark confidence, ambition and real change in young leaders.”
Industry Insight sessions broaden young people’s career horizons, build resilience, and show how lived experience can become a powerful driver of positive change. Hearing real-life stories empowers them to turn challenges into opportunities and create meaningful change in their communities.
This session was in partnership with Tales to Inspire, an organisation focused on amplifying impactful stories to drive change.
