Youth Strategic Investment Fund – over £2 million invested in three inspiring youth-led organisations

The Advocacy Academy is a youth organising movement based in Brixton, working to create a more fair, equal and just society where young people with lived experience of injustice have the power to make lasting change for themselves and their communities. They focus on building the power of young people, using radical youth work and community organising alongside social justice training.

Saba Shafi, CEO of The Advocacy Academy, said: ​“We are excited to receive this five-year support through the Youth Strategic Investment Fund. We are driven and unapologetic, and are committed to creating a world that reflects true justice. Power, to us, is not just about feeling ​‘confident’ or ​‘courageous’; it is the ability to take action.

“With this funding, we will be able to expand our training and mentorship capabilities, grow our leadership development programmes, and further equip our growing members with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to tackle systemic challenges and effect transformative change. We are honoured to partner with PHF in our mission to cultivate a new generation of fearless advocates. Together, we will continue to build a future where young people are at the forefront of shaping a more just, inclusive, and equitable society for all.”

Integrate UK are based in Bristol and invest in the skills, passions and talents of young people as leaders who can thrive in a society that recognises the value of gender and racial equality and cross-cultural cohesion.

Rania Ibrahim, Fundraising and Communications Manager, Integrate UK said: ​“We are delighted to join the Youth Strategic Investment Fund and are looking forward to developing and strengthening our organisation, so we can increase the impact of our work with and for young people. The relationships, potential collaborations and learning gained by all the funded organisations will be invaluable in our journey towards strategic development.”

The Young Women’s Movement is Scotland’s national organisation for young women’s feminist leadership, which creates transformational spaces that enable young women to lead personal, community and institutional change.

Jenni Snell, CEO of The Young Women’s Movement said: ​“This five-year investment comes at a pivotal point for The Young Women’s Movement, having just launched our new five-year strategic plan and branding in April 2023. This fund will enable us to continue building our capacity and work towards our vision of a Scotland where young women are meaningfully heard, valued and supported to lead collective action and enact transformational change.

“We’re delighted to have been chosen as a recipient of the Youth Strategic Investment Fund and grateful to Paul Hamlyn Foundation for their ongoing dedication to organisations that are creating change towards a more equal society.”