FROM MANCHESTER TO WESTMINSTER: CELEBRATING 15 YEARS OF IMPACT
Youth Leads UK marked 15 years of empowering underprivileged young people at the House of Lords, unveiling its 2025 – 2030 strategy after supporting over 25,000 nationwide.
Decision-makers, funders, and young leaders gathered in the heart of Westminster at the historic House of Lords for an evening celebrating impact, community, and the power of youth leadership. The event, held in Westminster and compered by Aaliah Patel, a member of Youth Leads UK’s Youth Advisory Board, showcased the voices and journeys of young people who have both shaped and been shaped by the charity.
Speakers included Maisha Lorgat, a Greater Manchester Civic Youth Leader; Abdullah Abrar, a graduate of the Leadership Programme; Rosa Tite-Ahern, one of the organisation’s newest Trustees; Lydia German, who shared her journey from participant to Trustee; and Farzana Begum, representing the Youth Advisory Board. The keynote address was delivered by Dame Julia Cleverdon DCVO CBE, Chair of The National Lottery Community Fund and long-time advocate for youth empowerment, who praised Youth Leads UK’s commitment to giving young people a genuine seat at the table.
The evening marked both a celebration of 15 years of impact and the beginning of a bold new chapter. From its Manchester roots to influencing change nationally, Youth Leads UK has helped more than 25,000 young people develop skills, confidence, and a sense of belonging. Its new 2025–2030 strategy reaffirms a vision for a world where young people matter – confident in their voices, connected to their communities, and creating positive change.
Lydia German, Trustee of Youth Leads UK, said:
“My journey with Youth Leads UK began as a teenager, when I built a portfolio, presented videos, and wrote blogs. That hands-on experience opened the door to my first communications job, and now I serve as a Trustee. When we give young people authentic roles, we turn their confidence into leadership. Young people belong in the room and at the table where decisions are made.”
Maisha Lorgat, Greater Manchester Civic Youth Leader, said:
“Since taking part in this programme, I have become a Trustee for two charities, using the skills and insight I have gained to continue championing youth voice and representation within governance. This experience has reinforced my belief that when young people are trusted and supported, they bring creativity, accountability, and lived experience that can enrich every organisation and community.”
Dame Julia Cleverdon DCVO CBE, Chair of The National Lottery Community Fund and founder of the #iwill campaign, said:
“Learning by doing changes lives. That’s why Youth Leads UK’s leadership and civic programmes matter – because they place real responsibility where we want the power to grow. On your 15th anniversary, you’ve shown what’s possible when young people take power. When you give young people responsibility – on boards, in councils, shaping policy – they contribute and lead. Back them with relationships, opportunity and trust, and they will change the country.”
Saeed Atcha MBE DL, Founder and CEO of Youth Leads UK, said:
“We all know the headlines: the cost of living, mental ill health, disconnection from civic life and stubborn inequalities. The answer has three parts: relationships, opportunity and trust. Young people need credible role models, enriching skills-building experiences, and crucially the trust to lead. If we’re serious about a better country, we must share power with young people and make decision-making more representative of the people it serves.”
The House of Lords provided a fitting backdrop to thank long-standing supporters and funders, while inspiring new partners to join the journey ahead. As Youth Leads UK marks its 15th year, it remains committed to championing youth leadership and social mobility – inviting individuals and organisations alike to get involved through volunteering, partnership, or support, and help shape a future where every young person can lead and thrive.
This was an external event held at the House of Lords. The views expressed are those of Youth Leads UK and participants, not those of the House of Lords or the UK Parliament.
All photographs are credit of Sophia Carey.
