GREATER MANCHESTER’S YOUTH CELEBRATED AT GRADUATION EVENT
Young leaders’ achievements were recognised as they took centre stage after completing the Youth Leads UK Leadership Programme.
32 young changemakers from across Greater Manchester were celebrated at Youth Leads UK’s Trailblazing Youth Graduation, held at Manchester’s HOME Theatre. The event brought together young people and key decision-makers to mark the achievements of those who completed a 12-week Leadership Programme.
Graduates from Bolton, Salford and Trafford took to the stage to share their inspiring stories, touching on breaking barriers and developing new skills, including confidence, resilience and a passion for youth-led social action.
Welcoming guests and congratulating the young graduates, the Chief Operating Officer at Youth Leads UK, Mehran Mokri, said:
“Leadership isn’t something you wait to earn. It’s something you practice every single day – in the way you show up, the decisions you make, and the change you choose to be. You’ve already proven you can lead. Don’t underestimate that. Don’t play yourself down. And don’t wait for permission to take up space – you belong in the rooms where decisions are made. Congratulations to each and every one of you!”
Youth Leads UK were proud to welcome Royal Representative and Deputy Lieutenant of Greater Manchester, Mr Paul Griffiths DL, who, addressing the audience, said:
“What an inspiration you are. This is the sort of civic pride we should see across the UK, and here it is in Greater Manchester – alive in your hearts and minds. The stories you shared today show your passion, commitment, energy, and love for your fellow human beings. We need strong leadership more than ever, and you, the youth, are it. You have already demonstrated a real commitment to leadership through your actions. You are the future, you are the now, and we need you.”
18-year-old Youth Leads UK Leadership Programme Graduate, Carys from Trafford, said:
“Youth Leads UK has seriously helped me find not just my voice – allowing me to express myself and my opinions confidently – but also helped me realise the collective power and importance of our shared youth voice. To me, a world which includes youth leadership isn’t about young people being the loudest in the room. It’s about making sure our voices are valued equally and that youth opinions stand alongside those of our older counterparts.”
Saeed Atcha MBE DL, CEO of Youth Leads UK said:
“Our graduates show exactly what happens when young people are trusted, backed and given room to lead. Their stories reflect the best of our communities: resilience, kindness and ambition for change. At Youth Leads UK, we are committed to ensuring young people are not just heard but genuinely influential. These graduates remind us why that mission matters.”
Every Leadership Programme at Youth Leads UK culminates in a celebration of young people’s achievements, inspiring them to continue their journey of growth and ambition.
All graduates now join the Youth Leads UK alumni network, where they receive employability and careers support, opportunities to join other programmes and a chance to stay connected with a growing movement of young changemakers.
Following the speeches, participants proudly received their certificates, with photos capturing the special moments available here.
