We are thrilled to announce a very special new project in partnership with the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) that will bring an absolute tidal wave of fun, skills, experience and opportunity to young people.
The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) is launching Futures Lab, a brand-new project built with young people, for young people. Right now, the number of young people getting into sailing isn’t growing, and the RYA want to change that. The world’s moving fast… sport is evolving and barriers to participation from access or cost to competing life priorities are ever present.
That’s why the RYA is forming the Futures Lab, bringing a group of passionate 16–25-year olds into the heart of the organisation, to help shape the future of sailing and outdoor adventure. Rather than making assumptions about what young people want, Futures Lab will provide a platform for their ideas and experiences to guide meaningful change.
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Recruitment is now open for Futures Lab Members – young individuals who care about the outdoors, want to make a difference, and are ready to challenge the status quo. A whole raft of activities will be on offer, from sailing and yachting to water sports, it’s the perfect opportunity to dive into something new and create wave in your life.
Sailing expertise isn’t even required; what matters is a commitment to fairness, inclusion, and creating
a sport that’s accessible and exciting for everyone.
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What members of the Futures Lab will gain
Volunteering as part of Futures Lab offers young people a meaningful opportunity to influence the work of the RYA and the future of sailing, making a lasting impact on the sport.
Members will receive free leadership training through us here at Unloc, including access to a bespoke
leadership academy featuring a hands-on residential experience, both on and off the water, and a dynamic leadership bootcamp designed to build confidence and practical skills. It’s gaining a wealth of leadership and tangible skills whilst having an amazing time, enjoying activities, and making new friends.
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Participants will join a growing network of inspiring young people from across the UK, united by a shared passion for making a difference. Additional opportunities to connect with professionals across the sporting world will be available throughout the programme.
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Additional ambassador benefits:
How it works
As the national governing body for sailing and windsurfing, the RYA represents a community of over 100,000 members, working with over 24,000 instructors, 250,000 volunteers, and more than 2,000 Recognised Training Centres across the UK.
Futures Lab Members will contribute directly to new and ongoing RYA initiatives, helping to shape national events, youth training programmes, and wider strategic decisions. Their input will ensure that future developments reflect the needs and aspirations of their generation.
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Members will take part in bi-monthly online ‘labs’ focused on identifying challenges and co-creating solutions through workshop-style sessions and there will also be opportunities for in-person gatherings throughout the year.
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Building on progress
The Future’s Lab is part of the RYA’s ongoing Reflections on Water campaign – connecting voices nationwide to drive real change. Guided by the RYA’s Together on Water strategy (launched in 2023), it is a milestone moment linking to the national governing bodies soon to be released Diversity & Inclusion Action plan.
The creation of the Future’s Lab has been in development for two years with young voices engaged in the creation of the project to ensure it will be valuable, relevant and engaging for all those involved.
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One such voice was Ellia Rhodes (21), from Greater Manchester and Chair of the new Futures Lab stating:
“Sailing is such a large part of my life, and I got involved in the programme because it was important to me that I help ensure there were opportunities for young people to have a positive impact in what we all love. For those considering joining the Futures Lab, I would say it’s a great opportunity to contribute to the sport in a welcoming place of likeminded people who are all passionate about wanting to make a difference in an ever-changing sport.”
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Sara Sutcliffe, RYA CEO said:
“The Futures Lab is an important step forward for the RYA, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to the next generation of sailors and boaters. We want young people to thrive on and off the water, and this initiative is about giving them the skills, confidence, and opportunities to use their voices to shape what they love. We can’t wait to get them involved in the upcoming work, and I’m sure the programme will deliver exciting developments for years to come.”
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Our Co-Founder and Chief Executive Hayden Taylor said:
“We’re beyond thrilled to be working with the RYA on the Futures Lab. Together we’re breaking down the barriers which convince some people that they can’t be a part of boating or that it’s only for a select few. Futures Lab members can also get involved with such a wide range of outdoor activities on the water, as well as getting a taste for the many types of careers and opportunities that this industry offers. We can’t wait to dive on in and get started on this exciting project!”
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For Future Lab ambassadors, this is an opportunity to make a lasting impact on the future sailing and help foster a community with the next generation at the heart of the conversation.
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Get Involved
If you’re aged 16–25, passionate about sailing, sport, or the outdoors, and want to make a difference, the RYA would love to hear from you.
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Click here now to apply to join Futures Lab!
Get ready to lace up your trainers and join Unloc for an exciting day at the Great Manchester Run! That’s right, the Unloc team are getting our steps in to help give young changemakers a step up, as we take on the infamous Great Manchester Run Half Marathon on Sunday 31st May 2026 to raise money for the Unloc Changemakers Fund, and we’d love you to join us.
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What to expect
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The Great Manchester Run offers a fast, flat course, an electric atmosphere, massive crowds, inclusive waves for all abilities (beginners to elites) and iconic city views, all offering a memorable UK running experience. A myriad of celebrities and radio and television personalities sign up to join in, from Radio DJs to Coronation Street stars and Love Island couples, you never know who you’re going to see running beside you.
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The Cause
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Last year’s event attracted over 26,000 participants who raised millions for good causes. This year we’re putting our hearts and ‘soles’ into raising money for the Unloc Changemakers Fund, a ring-fenced fund dedicated to awarding changemaker micro-grants to young people from disadvantaged communities. These grants give motivated young changemakers from across the UK the opportunity, resources and support they need to turn their ideas into real community-led projects that make a difference in their local area. With mentoring and guidance from Unloc, they can transform passion and creativity into determined and tangible social action.
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Join Us
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We are inviting our partners to join the movement and now is the perfect time to secure your place on our team, helping young people get their lives on track. Our finish line is their starting line for a brighter future.
What are you waiting for?
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Sign up, lace up and join us in Manchester this May by clicking here!
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Not able to run but want to support us? Click here to see our fundraising page
We are thrilled that one of the amazing groups of young people we work with, the Aldershot Army Welfare Service Youth Voice Ambassadors Group, have won the Group Achievement Award in the Hart Youth Achievement Awards 2025!
On Friday 17th October, young changemakers across the district came together for the Hart Youth Achievement Awards Grand Final, all hoping to have their efforts and hard work recognised. Amongst them were our troupe of excited changemakers, the Aldershot Army Welfare Service Youth Voice Ambassadors Group.
They won the Group Achievement Award for their hard work producing a ‘Youth Voice Cookbook’ – a cookery book focused on improving and maintaining good mental health for young people. This exciting project was in partnership with Unloc and funded by the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.
The Awards are run by the organisation Fleet Phoenix, founded in 2011, they work with young people and their families across the entire Hart district. By using early intervention the organisation help prevent young people from reaching crisis point, helping those vulnerable or in need and in need, benefitting the wider community, and easing pressure on the NHS and crisis services long term.
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The Youth Voice Cookbook serves as a valuable resource to support young people with their mental health and wellbeing, providing a range of recipes that provide comfort and balance, and have mood boosting benefits. All the recipes were chosen and designed by young people themselves. It doesn’t stop there however, the book also includes mood enhancing activities to encourage healthy living and nourish the mind to improve your overall wellbeing.
Recipes include: Lasagne, Spaghetti Carbona, Chicken Enchiladas, Pancakes and Chicken Noodle Soup, as well as Chocolate Brownies, Viennese Biscuits, Cookies and Vanilla Cupcakes (to mention but a few of the tasty dishes inside).
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Dotted throughout also are motivational quotes, puzzles, activities, Sudoku and a crossword. It’s more than just a cookbook – it’s a resource to calm the mind, distract and focus, and provide activities which are calming and take away from panicked thought patterns.
We love to celebrate the strength, creativity, and spirit of young people who are making a real difference in their schools, colleges and communities, using innovation, social action, entrepreneurship and determination to improve the lives of those around them. That’s changemaking in action.
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Larissa Atkins, our Programme Facilitator for Public Sector Partnerships, worked on the project with these passionate young changemakers. Larissa said:
“I’m so pleased they [the Aldershot Army Welfare Service Youth Voice Ambassadors Group] have been acknowledged for all their hard work with this award. It took the group over a year of hard work and planning to bring the cookbook to life, but it is a really beautiful and practical resource for young people that helps with looking after the big picture of our wellbeing – both our bodies and our minds.
It is also a testament to the power of true collaboration as a previous youth group member, who now runs a small arts business, was able to do the graphic design for the finished cookbook. I am always inspired by the positive difference young people are able to make with even a small amount of funding and support.”
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Our Co-Founder and Chief Executive Hayden Taylor said:
“We are so immensely proud of this inspiring young changemakers, taking all that they’ve researched and learned, and working together as a team to create this valuable resource to help other young people like themselves.
From our work around the country in schools and colleges, we recognise the absolute important role that good mental health plays in the lives of young people, and the profound impact that the pandemic had on their wellbeing and ability to navigate the world around them.
This recipe book isn’t just a guide for them to cook easy and delicious meals, it’s a go-to when things get too much, with activities and techniques to help balance their mind and improve their inner state. A massive congratulations to the team for all their hard work and for winning this fantastic award. We are so proud.”
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Charlotte Tickner, Managing Director of Fleet Phoenix said:
“Another fantastic Hart Youth Achievement Awards this year, celebrating and recognising another amazing group of young people. We were so thrilled to be able to share their incredible achievements and stories; they truly are an inspiration to all.
These awards are so special to us and the community, being able to showcase and celebrate local young people and ensure a positive light is shone upon them with all they do and their commitment to be better. It is incredibly inspiring to see not only the winners but all the nominees achievements, we as the awards committee are blown away each year reading about and getting to meet these impressive young people. We hope to be able to continue these awards for many years to come.”
Other inspirational young people who won awards on the night include:
Junior Fundraising Award Winner – Jimmy Cragg
Senior Fundraising Award Winner – Penelope Shadrake
Junior Volunteering Award Winner – Rupert Trevelyan
Senior Volunteering Award Winner – Amber Bradbury
Junior Sports and Arts Award Winner – Hugo Cheng
Senior Sports and Arts Award Winner – Lola-Belle Keetch
Junior Courage Award Winner – Oliver Caton
Senior Courage Award Winner – Isabella Swan
Junior Community Champion Award Winner – Alfie Thorne
Senior Community Champion Award Winner – Macy Bryant
Senior Academic Achievement Award Winner – Aleks Sobczak
Group Achievement Award Winners – AWS Youth Voice Ambassadors Group
Junior Highly Commended Award Winner (Community Champion) – Austin and Natalie Rogers
Junior Highly Commended Award Winner (Courage) – Grace Mason
Highly Commended Award Winner (Group Achievement) – Stagecoach Performing Arts School Fleet
A huge congratulations to all the nominees and winners, such an achievement, and proving, each and every one of you – what young changemakers can be.
Check out their amazing Youth Voice Cookbook below, or click download to save it to your device.
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All of us at Unloc and the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust are incredibly proud of these young people, and their group effort to write, create, design and produce a valuable resource that matters for the Army Welfare Service. It really showcases the fantastic work young people can do when they combine forces and use each other’s strengths for a combined aim.
Well done to all of you, and we can’t wait to see the inspirational young changemakers that are put forward for next year’s Hart Awards!
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Are you aged 13 – 21 and in Hampshire or the Isle of Wight? You can be a young changemaker too!
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Want to make a difference to health and wellbeing in your community?
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Thanks to the NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare Foundation Trust we have five grants of up to £500 up for grabs. We are looking for passionate young people, aged 13-21, who have an idea to help improve health and wellbeing for people in Hampshire & the Isle of Wight.
Whether you are passionate about tackling mental health stigma; fed up with people vaping; love sport and want to get more people active; have your own experience of a health condition or disability and want to help others like you, or just have a great idea to help improve health and wellbeing – we want to hear from you!
If your application is successful you will receive the following support and funding to help you make your idea a reality:
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Click here to find out more or apply!
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Click here to download the cookbook
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For more information about Fleet Phoenix click here
For more information about the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust click here!
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To learn more about the Army Welfare Service click here
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It’s that time of year when we invite our partners, stakeholders, schools, colleges and supporters to take a peek behind the curtain and see what we’ve been up to over the past 12 months. The past academic year has been an incredibly busy one for Unloc, we’ve achieved so so much, expanding our reach, developing our programmes, leading new and exciting initiatives, grown the Unloc Changemaker Alliance, and met some truly inspiring and motivating young people and business leaders.
From events such as our Changemaker Moments and Cash Kickstarters, Seed 2030 and another amazing year of The Young Entrepreneurs Challenge, to programmes such as Young Women in Tech and Grow Your Ambition – the offer this past year has been wide-ranging, innovative, and covered so much new territory to improve the lives of the young people we work with.
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Here’s our Co-Founders Ben and Hayden to explain more.
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Download the report (below) by clicking the downward arrow button to the top right of the window, or by clicking the link underneath.
We hope you enjoy this overview of just a small sample of our work over the past 12 months, and to those of you who have worked with us, experienced our programmes or events, and helped us on our mission to empower young people – we couldn’t do it without you. Together we make such a difference to the futures of the next generation.
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This Summer Unloc were proud to host our very first Student Governor Changemaker Programme Destination Conference. The event, held in London in partnership with Rockborn, wasn’t just another generic conference around education. It was a focused celebration of student leadership, a gathering of passionate voices, a recognition of young people, of Further Education, and a platform to spotlight those students making real change in their colleges and communities.
The space was packed with Student Governors, governance professionals, and inspiring thought leaders from across the country. Elevating, connecting, and empowering a new generation of changemakers throughout the country.
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As part of this event we developed an award to recognise the vital impact that a young person can have upon their college and the people around them, scouring the country and its colleges for our first ever Student Governor of the Year Award.
We were flooded with applications from colleges across the UK, and the standard was incredibly high. From young people using their voice to raise money to improve college buildings, develop new support and sponsorship, enable better accessibility on campus, fund raise for local charities, or assist with environmental clean up events – the bar was raised so high that it was incredibly difficult to pick a winner.
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After much consideration, we knew there was one Student Governor who really shone for their dedication, hard work and commitment. Someone who made such an enormous difference to their college, their campus, and with such a tremendous impact on the students, that it would literally be wrong to NOT award them the Student Governor of the Year 2025 Award.
Our winner was Ivy Knight, a 20-year-old floristry student from Moulton College in Northamptonshire. Ivy has been a force for good at her college since 2021, using her role as a Student Governor to drive meaningful change — and always doing it with integrity, courage, and heart. Ivy began her journey facing significant challenges, and really struggled with low self-confidence after being removed from school at just 13 years old. However, taking up further education provided her with the confidence she needed, and many opportunities to reinvent herself, follow her passions, and develop her way forwards both in her life and career potential.
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From joining sustainability and EDI groups to calling out issues like bullying, accessibility, and environmental shortcomings, Ivy has shown what it means to lead with purpose. Her attention to detail, her relentless drive, and her commitment to improvement are exactly what this award was designed to celebrate. Ivy always confidently and appropriately calls it out when things need improving, be this bullying of the LGBTQ+ community, poor accessibility for wheelchair users or lack of information around sustainability. Ivy didn’t just speak up — she created impactful change.
We caught up with Ivy to hear about her experience and her win.
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Ivy congratulations on winning our first Student Governor of the years award for 2025! How did it feel to have your name called on the night as the winner?
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I was absolutely shocked. All of the nominees had their achievements read out for the room, and I was certain I hadn’t won. I would have been just as happy not winning, knowing all of the amazing work done by the young people in the room.
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What made you first become interested in becoming a student governor, how did you hear about the role, and was it an easy process to get involved?
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I had a friend at the time who was applying, I helped them write their application and submitted mine at the same time. It was a fairly simple process, partially due to a lack of applicants that year!
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When you began as a governor – did you receive any kind of training or support in what you were meant to do? and if so, where from and how and why did it help?
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The Head of Governance and the entirety of the corporation were extremely welcoming, they supported any questions I had no matter how daft I felt they were. I received all of the same training as any other governor to help me prepare for the role. It was certainly a struggle at first to learn the acronyms and rules of the meetings (it almost felt like a foreign language) so my last act as student governor was to submit a guide to my successor, breaking everything down in a language more easily accessible to a student with quite often 0 corporate experience.
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What were your ambitions and goals when you became a governor – what did you want to change or improve in your surroundings or for your peers?
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After the first meeting I attended I noticed a large difference in how the college performed on paper compared to the lived experience of the students. I used my time on the board to point out the weak points of the student feedback systems and stand up for the students who represented the small percent that slip through the gaps.
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We’ve seen the list of some of the amazing work you’ve done to support and help people in your community, we were so impressed, we were literally blown away. What made you want to get involved in those issues – and tell us a bit about what you did to help and what the results were!
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Honestly, most of my advocacy work is fueled by my own experiences. I am a 20 year old, queer, woman, with both physical and mental disabilities. I also grew up as a young-carer, and was removed from school when I was 14. I have faced many disadvantages not just in College, but in life. Alongside my close friend Eleanor Holland (pictured below – who has an inherited disability, and is a wheelchair user), I started a revolution for the access rights of disabled staff and students at Moulton College.
We used her stories, and my links at the college, to raise awareness of the day-to-day life of a disabled student. Together we wrote a detailed document and recorded a podcast (both of which were made available to the governors).
Eleanor and I were also very involved in the renovations of the wheelchair accessible accommodation to make them more practical. There are so many things that can never be known about a minority without living it or listening to those who live it, and it was clear to us that disabled students had not previously been involved in the planning.
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Do you think young people are enthusiastic about becoming a student governor? Do colleges do enough to promote the role or provide insight into what it entails?
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Simply put, no. Based on my experience the general student population has no idea what a student governor does, or why. Being a student governor has changed the trajectory of my life in such a major way, and it sadens me to think that people are missing out on the opportunity.
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How did you find the experience of being a governor? Did you feel heard/listened to? Were there any challenges? Was the process of putting your views forward easy or difficult?
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I found it difficult to have my voice heard at first, but once I got comfortable I found it easier to be listened to. I faced a lot of struggle with the intents of my words being misunderstood, partially I believe this came from my passion being read as pushy or arrogant. I have Autism Spectrum Disorder, so I struggle with the social nuances that are necessary for this type of work. It was very difficult finding my way but once I did, I couldn’t be stopped.
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What would your advice be to someone just starting college this autumn term if they were considering being a student governor?
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Contrary to popular belief, being a student governor has very little in common with being a student representative or being in a student parliament. A Student Governor is considered an equal member of the corporation. We vote on decisions and have a hand in planning corporate goals and strategies.
We do not talk on behalf of the students; we are instead there to bring a new perspective to the meetings (you will likely be the only full-time student in the room, so you will have different ideas and questions to ask compared to the other board members). They may have experience in accounting, or in government, but you are the one with experience in being a student. That is your specialty, don’t let anyone undermine your authority and knowledge in that department.
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If you were just starting out in the role now – looking at the society we live in in 2025, the stories prevalent in the news – what campaigns or goals do you think you would focus your attention on?
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I would continue my focus on environmentalism, considering I am studying in the land based sector. It’s important to know what you’re talking about when you make a stand, and the easiest way to know: is to live it.
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What’s next for Ivy? Tell us a bit about your ambitions and plans now for the next stage in your life and career!
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I am starting a degree in Floral Design in September. I’m extremely excited! I will be starting at a new college at the other end of the country, and I will be sure to bring my ambition with me.
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Unloc Co-Founder and Chief Executive of Unloc, Hayden Taylor said:
“The sheer standard of nominees for our first ever Student Governor of the Year Award was totally overwhelming. We knew the standard would be high, but even we were shocked by the high bar these impressive young people set. Choosing a winner was incredibly hard, all of them had made such an impact on their school and college, and were true examples of young changemakers in action. Ivy is absolutely deserving of being our first ever Student Governor of the Year, her dedication to the role and its function, and her commitment to making real and lasting change in her college made her the perfect choice for our first ever winner, we can’t wait to see what she does next.”
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Peter Ryder, Company Director at Rockborn said:
“Ivy thoroughly deserved this prize. Her list of achievements over her time as student governor made a very difficult decision a little bit easier. She is an amazing young woman. That said, the quality of all the candidates was hugely impressive on paper and even more so when we got to meet them in person. I know Ivy and all these young people will go on to greater things and wish her and them every success. As Rockborn we’re incredibly proud to support this programme recognising the outstanding contribution of our student governors.”
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David McVean, Chair of Governors at Moulton College, said:
“Ivy has been a revelation as a student governor, and it is right and proper that she has been recognised for her work at Moulton College. There are many voices that speak on behalf of Further Education, but Ivy reminds us all of the most important one – that of the student.“
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Tony Shrubsall, Unloc’s Director of Content and Quality, and the Head of Academic Programmes added:
“As the voice of student leadership, being a student governor provides young people with the opportunity to inform and have a say in their education, helping to shape their college environment and the services they offer. We’re delighted to have awarded Ivy with the inaugural Student Governor of the Year award in recognition of her efforts and wish her all the best on what promises to be a successful future.”
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For more information on Unloc and our programmes and events click here
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For more information about Rockborn and the services they offer click here!
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For more information on Moulton College and their range of courses click here
One of the greatest things about our work at Unloc is getting to know, and work with such a wide and diverse range of people from all corners of industry. The kinds of people that we could have only ever dreamt of working with when we were at school ourselves – and each and every one brings something so unique to the table, contributing their own energy, interests and passion to the work we do with young people.
One of those individuals is Shelly Ashwill-Powers, a new member of the Unloc Changemaker Alliance family. Shelly has had such an interesting career journey as she has been with the same (sort of) company since college starting in 1989 with MCI. MCI was acquired by Verizon in 2006 and then created a partnership with HCLT in 2023. Shelly currently leads the role of SVP Client Services and Portfolio Management at HCL Technologies Limited.
We wanted to get to know Shelly better and find out more about her career journey, what’s inspired her, and what’s brought her to her current position. Our Marketing Manager Stu and Shelly spent some time getting to know each other and talking through the amazing career journey that Shelly has been on.
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Firstly, Shelly thank you for speaking with me today, I know how busy you are. It’s such a pleasure to have you working with us at Unloc. You’ve had such an impressive career and we’d love to hear more about your journey and success. Could you tell us about your early career and the key moments that helped shape your path to success?
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“It’s great to be with you Stu! I joined MCI right out of college as a National Accounts Service manager. My objective in obtaining my first professional job was to join a company that was in the tech industry and that had strong potential for growth. I have since been with MCI now Verizon (and now via a partnership between HCLT and Verizon) for 36 years!
I’ve worked in many aspects of Verizon including marketing, program management, sales, operations, enterprise and public sector. I would not change anything from a career perspective. I learned very early on that your attributes, capabilities, work ethic and commitment are incredibly important in your long term career.
One of my early executive senior leaders stated that you want to always be one of 5 people that a leader wants to work with. If that is true, you will always be in demand. That shaped my early years in wanting to always be one of the top employees that people wanted on their team. Later that shifted to inspiration in coaching my team.“
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Was there anyone who inspired you when you were young? And were there any pivotal mentors or role models who influenced your professional development, especially in your early years?
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“My father was a CFO for many successful companies. He was born into a family with little money. My dad and his 2 brothers all had an incredible work ethic. They each put themselves through school and each ended up being very successful. They each made a name for themself and created opportunities for their families and the next generation of leaders. They were each determined to make a better life for themselves and their families.
It was this work ethic that I picked up from my father and carried with me in my own career. I also have felt strongly that I never want to have any regrets. I genuinely strive to make a difference every day.“
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Looking back, what skills do you wish you had developed earlier in your career?
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“I didn’t have a technical degree. I had an English degree with a Marketing minor. I wish that I had majored in the tech industry, as I think my value would have been higher. Certainly I learned to be technical, but that was one learning that I had earlier in my career.“
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Why do you believe upskilling young people is so vital in today’s rapidly evolving job market?
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“Being adaptable to the market and understanding where the trends are heading is super important. If you’re not moving forward you are behind. There is a quote I love that says “the pace of change will never again be this slow”. This is so true. Things are happening at a rapid pace and as a result, your skills, capabilities, and value need to constantly be evaluated and refined. Being a “curious learner” is critical in today’s market.“
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What are some of the most critical skills you think young people need to succeed in the workplace today – and in the future?
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“In my opinion, success and happiness come down to the basics. Are you a good person? Do you make those around you better? Do you work hard? Do you create value? Do you work with integrity?
I find those leaders that are truly successful are humble, they are smart, they take care of people, they learn. It’s really not complicated but it does require consistency and effort.“
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How do you think businesses can better support the transition from education to employment, especially for young people from underserved communities?
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“The internet is such a gift. It really levels the playing field for everyone. We can all learn, we have the same 24 hours in a day. Businesses are looking for people that do their homework. They prepare for interviews, they have done the research on the business and the people at the company.
They have researched their earnings, they have read their annual report, they understand how the business makes money and why their service or products matter. Being prepared is a must in today’s environment.“
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What advice would you give to a young person today who feels unsure about their future career path?
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“It’s all ok! Every professional experience shapes who you are as a person. I would very much encourage young people to take risks, find people you really want to work with… those that inspire you. If you’re excited to go to work every day, you are at the right place. I remember being so excited to go to the office when I first started working. I loved to dress up, have my own desk, work with people, have projects etc. It just made me so happy and I felt needed and important.“
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Your support for Unloc is so appreciated, we know that you champion equal opportunities for all young people. Why is this mission important to you personally?
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“Young people are the future of our world. They see things differently than the last several generations. I’m so excited to help them build the next chapter of what matters. If they can leverage our experiences to improve how we live and work, that’s magical. I also feel very strongly about diversity in the workplace and leveraging different minds to build a better future. A homogenous world is boring and won’t drive the results that are needed.“
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What motivates you to give back and invest in the next generation of professionals?
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“I’m more motivated than ever to assist the next generation of leaders in achieving their goals and making room for creative innovation and change. I’m inspired by global challenges that require collaboration and new ideas that spark solutions.“
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If you could go back and give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
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“I don’t really have any regrets. I feel very blessed and fortunate to have had a vibrant career. All experiences are positive because you learn. Even if a negative situation happens, it makes you stronger.
Perhaps I should not have worked so hard 🙂 That might be one thing I would change, but it’s in my DNA.“
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What legacy do you hope to leave behind—not just in business, but in terms of impact on young people’s lives?
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“Oh, this is easy. That you remember me for being a caring person that wants every interaction to be memorable and that you feel special.”
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Shelly thank you so much, that was really insightful, and there’s some wonderful advice in there for the young people we work with (and for us as well!). I know how super busy you are, and I really appreciate you taking some time out of your busy schedule to meet with me today. We can’t wait to work more with you now that you’re a part of the Unloc family, and we look forward to getting to know you better as we move forwards!
Watch this space for more motivational interviews with inspiring professionals, young people, entrepreneurs and organisations who are changing the game for young people.
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To find out more about the Unloc Changemaker Alliance click here
What a whirlwind of inspiration, energy and learning these past two weeks have been at Innovation Fest 2025! As you know, at Unloc we love to innovate, look at different perspectives, and find new, unique and dynamic ways to to do things. Each Summer the Unloc team enjoy a wide range of activities based around the topic of innovation in order to do this, from powerful staff-led sessions to guest speakers who challenge and inspire us, the festival this year has been a true celebration of creativity, collaboration, and connection.
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We kicked things off with Unloc staff speed sharing and wow, what an awesome team we are! The energy in the room was electric, and it was clear this is something we need to do much more often.
Next up, Joshua Dale brought co-production with young people to life, introducing us to the story behind his brilliant invention “Can’t Say Um”. His journey of game inventions added so much value, and fun to the day.
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We then welcomed back Josh Robinson, who built on his incredible session from our Innovation Fest event last year. This time, Josh wowed us with marketing ads designed to spark discussions, helping us dive deeper into the art of influence. He broke down the jargon, making marketing crystal clear and relevant for our work with young people. His golden reminder: “Social media is a room – make sure you’re seen in the right ones. Influence isn’t ego, it’s trust, value, and confidence. And confidence comes from evidence, so let’s get posting!”
To round off Week 1, Tom Lloyd led “When Tom Met Sally”, exploring Your Special Sauce, the Power of Questioning, and that timeless truth – people buy from people they like. A really great session about Networlking.
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We were honoured to welcome Ahmad Jooma (aka Shook Man), who took us on a powerful journey of possibility. His message was clear: when we connect with ourselves, we connect more deeply with others. Young people are tuned into authenticity and this session gave us the tools to tap into our own. Highly recommended for anyone seeking to align purpose, passion, and impact.
Of course, no festival is complete without some fun and our staff summer social at Flight Club (plus ice cream in Buckingham Palace Gardens!) hit the spot.
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We then got hands-on with Podcast 101, guided by two amazing young podcasters in our Portsmouth Changemaker Studios. From learning the equipment to recording our own clips, it was a playful and practical session with Jess on hand to help us see how podcasting can become a powerful resource for our young people and programmes.
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Finally, to close two inspiring weeks, Larissa led us through reflection and feedback, before we wrapped things up in style with a rejuvenating yoga session with Curvaceous Carla, followed by a special guest appearance from TV and radio presenter Hayley Palmer. Hearing her personal story and career journey was both uplifting and motivating, and the finale, a celeb-style interview with our very own Ben Dowling ended Innovation Fest on a true high.
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Unloc’s Co-Founder & Chief Executive Hayden Taylor commented:
“Another Innovation Fest comes to an end, and once again the team have knocked it out the park when it comes to thinking outside the box, trying new things, and investigating dynamic fresh approaches to teaching, learning and sharing. Each Summer we like to take this time to step back and look at where we’ve been, where we’re going – and how we can best get there! Innovation and Technology have always been at the heart of our approach to educating and empowerment, and hearing from different members of the team, and those guests we’ve welcomed in to speak and share – really helps broaden all our horizons and perspectives.
Well done to everyone who helped put this year’s event schedule together, in particular Beth and Jess who have worked relentlessly to make it a roaring success. I can’t wait to see what you have planned for next year!”
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Innovation Fest 2025 has reminded us that innovation isn’t just about new ideas, it’s about people. The connections we make, the stories we share, and the courage to show up authentically all fuel the work we do with young people.
Here’s to more sharing, more learning, and more innovation together!
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Unstoppable Energy, Unforgettable Impact: Inside the First-Ever Student Governor Destinations Conference in London 2025
What do you get when you combine the ambition of young changemakers, the prestige of Burberry’s London headquarters, and a powerful collaboration between Unloc and Rockborn? You get an electric, inspiring, and unforgettable day that marked the launch of the very first Student Governor Destinations Conference, AND our first ever Student Governor of the Year Award, and we are still buzzing from it.
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This wasn’t just another conference. It was a celebration of student leadership, a gathering of passionate voices, and a platform to spotlight those making real change in their colleges and communities. And yes, it absolutely lived up to the hype.
From the very first moment, the energy in the room was undeniable. The space was packed with student governors, governance professionals, and inspiring thought leaders from across the country. The goal? To elevate, connect, and empower a new generation of changemakers. Recognise their input and impact, learn best practice from one another, network and celebrate the difference they make.
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The day was filled with dynamic workshops and thought-provoking panel discussions, but it was the atmosphere that truly made it special, the kind of buzz you only get when people are genuinely passionate about what they’re doing.
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And the speaker lineup? Next level. We were joined by a stellar cast of changemakers and leaders who shared their insights and stories, including:
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Their collective message was clear: student voice matters, and young leaders are not just the future, they are the now.
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But the day wasn’t just about conversation. It was about recognition too. For the very first time, we held the Student Governor of the Year Award ceremony, and the response was overwhelming. For the passt few months colleges across the country have nominated their standout governors, and the calibre of nominees was nothing short of inspiring. Choosing a winner was no easy task for the panel, in fact, it was a total nightmare.
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After much consideration, we were thrilled to present the award to Ivy Knight, a 20-year-old floristry student from Moulton College. Ivy has been a force for good at her college since 2021, using her role as a Student Governor to drive meaningful change — and always doing it with integrity, courage, and heart.
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From joining sustainability and EDI groups to calling out issues like bullying, accessibility, and environmental shortcomings, Ivy has shown what it means to lead with purpose. Her attention to detail, her relentless drive, and her commitment to improvement are exactly what this award was designed to celebrate. Ivy always confidently and appropriately calls it out when things need improving, be this bullying of the LGBTQ+ community, poor accessibility for wheelchair users or lack of information around sustainability. Ivy didn’t just speak up — she created change.
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As Ivy herself puts it:
“I’ve always been passionate about making a difference and having my voice heard, and participating as a Student Governor gave me a platform to channel this alongside my studies.”
Well said, Ivy, and well deserved.
The Student Governor Destinations Conference wasn’t just a success, it was a movement in motion. We’re beyond proud to have launched this event with our brilliant partners at Rockborn and to have celebrated the power of student leadership in such a bold and vibrant way.
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To everyone who attended, contributed, nominated, or simply cheered from afar: thank you. You made this event what it was, energetic, empowering, and absolutely unforgettable. Also special thanks to another partner of Unloc, the amazing team at Burberry for providing such a fantastic venue to hold this debut event. We appreciate you!
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Here’s to Ivy. Here’s to every student governor out there. And here’s to the future they’re already shaping, we’ll see you at next year’s Destination Conference event!
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To find out more about Rockborn click here
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To find out more about Burberry click here
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We’ve got BIG news. For those that saw our three year strategic plan last Summer, we have big plans for our Unloc, expanding our reach, our offer, and our impact on the young people we work with around the country. Unloc is officially stepping into its next era of impact and innovation, and we’re doing it with a major boost: a powerful new social investment to supercharge our mission!
We’ve always said we’re here to shake things up in education, training and youth opportunities, and now, thanks to Big Issue Invest – we’ve got the fuel to take that ambition sky-high!
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What IS Social Investment anyway?
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Think of social investment as a financial jetpack for mission-driven organisations like us. Its funding is designed not for the ‘day-to-day’ but to scale our impact, test new ideas, and invest in the future. And the best part? It’s built around the idea that doing good should also be sustainable.
Unlike your traditional bank loan, social investment is tailored for social enterprises and comes with support, flexibility, and real-world understanding. After scoping out the scene, the incredible team at Big Issue Invest – a well-known champion in the sector – have provided Unloc with a £21,600 grant and a £158,400 loan.
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Who are Big Issue Invest?
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Big Issue Invest are an organisation who invest in social enterprises, creating core solutions with an aim to end poverty in the UK. Founded by impact entrepreneurs John Bird and Nigel Kershaw from the well known Big Issue Group, they are one of the UK’s leaders in social impact investing.
Since 2005 they have invested over £100 million in hundreds of social impact organisations, all who share the Big Issue Group’s mission to dismantle poverty and inequality through social business solutions. Through their grants and funding they help grow organisations with a social mission or purpose, providing access to funding, support, and a network committed to their growth and impact.
Recognising the alignment with our own values to level the playing field, help end inequality and provide young people from all backgrounds, cultures and situations with opportunities and training, we knew they were the right organisation to join forces with. The funding will help move us forward with our expansion plans and develop our offer to young people in the UK.
With the help of this inspiring organisation, we are sharpening our business and marketing strategies, moving forwards and growing our business.
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Where’s the investment going?
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We’re not just throwing money around. Every penny is being strategically invested in projects that push us forward.
1. Hello Leeds!
Following our success in London and Portsmouth, Unloc is heading up north! We’re so excited to be launching our Leeds Hub in Leeds City Centre, and this funding helps us get off the ground, connect with local partners, and make it self-sustaining in two years. We’re getting northern powerhouse vibes!
2. Taster workshops: Try Before You Buy
We believe in showing, not just telling. So we’re offering free taster workshops, because nothing beats ‘experiencing’ the Unloc magic first-hand. We believe in who we are and what we do, we believe in our product, and we know you will too. One session is all it takes to see changemaking in process.
3. Grant writing power-up
To grow our amazing community-based work, we’re bringing in a professional Grant Writer to help us win more funding. It’s like levelling up for us, we’re playing smarter and harder to ensure we have the right support, funding and guidance to help us expand for the future.
4. Next-level marketing
Our marketing team has been crushing it over the past five years, if you’ve been following Unloc’s growth you’ll have seen a total transformation in our image and brand. Now, with our recent expansion to have an in-house videography team we’re scaling up video content with a focus on engaging young people directly, using youth voice as a tool, launching new programme reels, refreshing our website and supercharging our brand presence. Gen Z? We’re talking directly to you now!
5. Tech + space upgrades
Our Changemaker Studios in Portsmouth and London are getting some serious tech upgrades with new CleverTouch screens, hybrid conferencing systems, iPads and more. Guided by our awesome Innovation Champions, these upgrades will make our spaces more creative, collaborative, and cutting-edge than ever.
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Why this matters
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This isn’t just about money. It’s about momentum. It’s about doubling down on our mission to empower the next generation. It’s about dreaming bigger, working smarter, and showing what’s possible when you back a bold vision with the right support.
We have an amazing team of vibrant, visionary and dynamic staff. We just needed a bit of support to build the infrastructure around them to deliver in new regions, the tools and tech around them to help support them, and the means to deliver the words and experiences of the young people they work with each and every day.
Most of all, it’s about the young people, they are, after all – the very reason we’re here in the first place. They are quite literally the future, the spark, the reason we do what we do.
We’re building a better, bolder Unloc. This investment is just the beginning.
Watch this space.
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Student Governor Changemaker Programme: Destination Conference
Thursday 26 June 2025
Burberry Headquarters, Horseferry House, London
From 11:30am – 4:30pm
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Calling all Student Governors! Get ready for an unforgettable day on Thursday 26th June, as student governors from across the UK come together in the heart of London for a high-energy celebration of leadership, impact, and empowered changemaking!
We’re taking over Burberry’s iconic London headquarters for a jam-packed day of inspiration, insight and empowerment as we mark the first year of our Student Governor Changemaker Programme! If you’ve served as a student governor this year – this is your moment.
Over the past year, in partnership with Rockborn, we’ve been on a mission to equip student governors from across the UK with the tools to lead, and the voice to succeed. Through our range of invigorating bootcamps, dedicated skills development sessions, guest speakers and workshops, we’ve worked closely with you to bring out your inner leader, give you the confidence to speak your mind, share your thoughts, and take affirmative action to make positive change a reality in your college.
Now, it’s time to celebrate that journey together.
Our Destinations Conference is dedicated to bringing together young leaders from around the country, sharing what you’ve learnt, connecting with your peers, and celebrating with us the landmark first year of the first dedicated nationwide programme created specifically to provide Student Governors with the highest level of training and support. We’re also opening up this opportunity to invite along your Governance Professional to help celebrate your success!
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What to expect:
This is your chance to reflect on how far you’ve come, the change you’ve led, and the skills you’ve built, while connecting with others who share your drive to make a difference in their colleges and communities.
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Meet Our Incredible Guest Speakers:
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Unloc’s Co-Founder and Chief Executive Hayden Taylor said:
“What an amazing year it’s been. The Unloc team recognised that there was a severe lack of training and support for young people entering into their role as a Student Governor, being thrown in the deep end with little available to prepare them or show them how to be heard, how to engage with both students and professionals, and how to be empowered to make positive change in their college. “
“The Unloc Student Governor Changemaker Programme was born! As we celebrate our first year of the programme we’re inviting young people from colleges across the country to join us in London to mark our first year. It’s going to be a fun packed day with some truly inspirational guest speakers, we can’t wait to see you all there.”
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Rockborn’s Company Director Peter Ryder said:
“Rockborn is so proud to be sponsoring the Unloc Student Governor Changemaker Programme. This past year has been such a huge success and we’ve loved being involved and watching young people develop and grow in real time as Student Governors. Each workshop and session has been eye-opening and impressive, and seeing the maturity that young people display in the programme’s supportive learning environment has been so rewarding. We hope to see you all at the Destinations Conference so we can celebrate this landmark achievement together!”
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Don’t miss out on the student leadership event of the year.
Seats are limited, energy will be high, and we cannot wait to celebrate all you’ve achieved .
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Ready to be inspired, empowered, and connected?
If you haven’t already signed up, get in touch with: [email protected] for more information.
We are thrilled to announce a very special new project in partnership with the Royal Yachting Association that will bring an absolute tidal wave of fun and opportunity to young people.
Get ready to lace up your trainers and join Unloc for an exciting day at the Great Manchester Run! We’re getting our steps in to help give young changemakers a step up, as we take on the Great Manchester Run Half Marathon!
Check our our latest blog on an amazing groups of young people, the Aldershot Army Welfare Service Youth Voice Ambassadors Group, who won the Group Achievement Award in the Hart Youth Achievement Awards 2025!
The Portsmouth Youth Cabinet’s End of Year Celebration was one to remember and an amazing way to end the 24/25 academic year!
We are thrilled to announce a very special new project in partnership with the Royal Yachting Association that will bring an absolute tidal wave of fun and opportunity to young people.
Get ready to lace up your trainers and join Unloc for an exciting day at the Great Manchester Run! We’re getting our steps in to help give young changemakers a step up, as we take on the Great Manchester Run Half Marathon!
Check our our latest blog on an amazing groups of young people, the Aldershot Army Welfare Service Youth Voice Ambassadors Group, who won the Group Achievement Award in the Hart Youth Achievement Awards 2025!
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