First Class Legacy launches latest phase of WMCA’s Street Team programme
Published: Wednesday 22 Jun 2022
A West Midlands-based company which specialises in the engagement of young people is taking to the streets again to showcase new career opportunities in the region.
First Class Legacy has launched the latest phase of a West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) outreach programme - called the Find Your Future Campaign - to raise young people’s awareness of work, training and education opportunities.
The project aims to widen and increase participation in employment by supporting individuals with the skills and support they need to take advantage of apprenticeship, training, volunteering and employment opportunities created before, during and after the City of Culture and Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.
Members of First Class Legacy’s specially trained street team will be mobilised in communities across Birmingham, talking to local young people about their hopes for the future.
The street team will focus on youth hot spots, including community centres, youth hubs, nail salons, takeaways, barber shops and shopping precincts, including liaison with community leaders and local businesses. The service will be available until March 2023.
First Class Legacy has delivered youth focused outreach programmes on behalf of WMCA for more than four years and engaged hundreds of young people as part of the last phase of the Find Your Future Street Team programme in summer 2021.
First Class Legacy director Nathan Dennis, said: “We’re really excited to extend our established relationship with WMCA and are keen to build on the success we enjoyed last year. This programme is a dynamic way of promoting employment and training opportunities to young people, during what is a huge moment for our city. We are determined to play an active and positive role in reducing youth unemployment and by providing young and relatable role models, we know we can make a real difference.”
Mayor of the West Midlands Andy Street, who chairs the WMCA, said: “A key part of my mayoral mission is to ensure young people across our region get access to the opportunities they deserve.
“That’s why it is such welcome news that we will be working alongside First Class Legacy in order to deliver the latest phase of the ‘Find your Future’ campaign. Just when young people are finding their feet and looking to take the first steps in their career, this innovative initiative helps to demystify and make more relatable the skills and training required to really thrive across a whole range of career pathways.
“I look forward to many young people directly benefitting from this scheme and hearing the stories of the lives changed for the better.”