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Launching Our Youth Leadership Programme
Launching Our Youth LEADERSHIP PROGRAMME
At Empire Fighting Chance, young people are at the centre of everything we do. Their voices shape how we work, how we grow, and how we continue to transform lives through the power of boxing. That’s why we’re proud to officially launch Our Youth Leadership Programme, which includes our new Youth Advocacy Board, a project designed to give young people a real say in the future of Empire and the communities we serve.
A New Generation of Leaders
Empire Empowered will support young people in Bristol to rise as community leaders. The group is led by two inspiring young people who’ve completed Empire programmes and now work with us, supported by our Careers Manager. Together, they’ll guide their peers to turn lived experience into leadership and create positive change from within their communities.
The project’s journey begins with Box Leaders, our dynamic spin on a youth leadership programme. Over 12 weeks of boxing-fuelled sessions at The Mill, our iconic Easton gym, young people will build key leadership skills like planning, communication, adaptability, empowerment and innovation. Each session blends physical training with personal development, giving participants the confidence and tools to lead, both inside and outside the ring.
Graduates will then put their new skills into action by designing and delivering social action projects that benefit their local communities, from running fitness classes to supporting our school holiday programmes.
Becoming Youth AMBASSADORS
After completing Box Leaders, young people will continue their journey as Youth Ambassadors, the driving force behind campaigns, events, and initiatives that amplify youth perspectives. These champions will:
- Co-deliver Empire programmes and workshops for schools and partners
- Train professionals and advise corporate partners on inclusive recruitment
- Meet and collaborate with local decision makers
- Lead annual campaigns around issues that matter most to them: youth violence, mental health, and social mobility
Through this work, they’ll use their voices to influence systems, break down barriers, and create lasting change across Bristol.
Shaped by Young People, for Young People
This programme isn’t just about teaching leadership, it’s about listening. The group is already making its mark by helping to name rooms and pitch artwork ideas for The Annex, our new space in Easton. Their creativity and insight ensure the space truly belongs to the young people it’s built for.
Listening to young people and giving them a say in how we design and deliver our spaces is at the heart of Empire Fighting Chance. From programme development to campaign planning, their feedback and ideas continually shape how we evolve and grow.
