This year, 130 young people are taking part in Street Elite, a transformative 12-month mentoring programme designed to help them move into employment, education, or training.
As part of the initiative, an employability day and a Dragon’s Den-style entrepreneur event were held in August, where graduates were able to explore future career opportunities.
Adrian Knight, Lead Trainer at Berkeley Group, delivered a session on presentation skills – just one example of how Berkeley colleagues can add value to our partnerships.
Yvette Santana, Senior Coach Mentor at The Change Foundation, explains what the employability day entailed:
“We had partners providing advice and guidance on communication skills, CV building, and understanding the dynamics between employees and employers - including how those relationships evolve over time.
Throughout the day, participants took part in interactive workshops that explored a range of career options across different sectors. These sessions gave them a chance to consider new pathways, ask questions, and build confidence in a supportive environment.”
Here’s what some of the young people had to say:
- “I never thought I’d be able to meet somebody who does what I want to do.”
- “Compared to other job fairs, I found this to be more interactive and inclusive of career development, rather than just entry-level jobs.”
Through the Dragon’s Den-style event, Street Elite participants were invited to apply for a dedicated fund to support entrepreneurial ideas - with guidance from Street Elite coaches and business mentors from Permira, a global investment firm. 11 young graduates stepped up to the challenge and pitched their business ideas.
The pitches were as diverse as they were inspiring. Ideas ranged from beauty ventures like eyelash and ponytail extensions, to mobile skincare services for mothers, a Pilates business, and a rental agency in Manchester tailored to postgraduate students. Each participant delivered a persuasive, creative, and heartfelt presentation, showcasing not just their ideas but their personal growth.
Rhianna Webb, Women and Girls Coaching Manager, said:
"All participants approached this challenge with open minds, dedicating time and effort to thoroughly research their business ideas. Many achieved a successful pitch and were delighted with their outcomes, while others, though less successful in their pitch, walked away with valuable feedback and a fresh perspective of how they can expand their business ideas further. Every participant expressed genuine gratitude for the opportunity, and we look forward with excitement to seeing their business ideas come to life.
One graduate summed up the spirit of the day:
“Street Elite has given me the confidence I needed. The one-to-one mentoring has shaped me into the person I am today, standing here in front of you all.”
Those awarded grants will now receive continued support to bring their ventures to life. Meanwhile, the rest of the cohort will be progressing into work or education with the support of Street Elite coach mentors.