An initiative from United By 2022, Gen22 is a free-to-access programme which creates opportunities for young people aged 16-24 to gain employability-boosting skills and make a positive impact in their communities.

This week (Tuesday 25 March), United By 2022 hosted an exclusive celebration at the Black Country Living Museum in Dudley. The event marked the achievements of 200 young people who have successfully completed Gen22, and officially announced the relaunch of the programme thanks to new funding.

Gen22 is designed to open up new opportunities for young people who may face barriers in accessing support. Challenges could include poor mental health, being a young parent or carer, or having a criminal record. This year, the programme had a strong focus on enabling participation from those with special educational needs, disabilities or access requirements. 

Participants are assigned to one of 14 organisations to complete a 30-hour social action project. Through this activity, participants can earn accredited or in-house qualifications and awards, complete skills-based residential programmes, or take part in volunteering activity.

With the opportunity to learn from industry professionals and gain life-long skills training, this year’s Gen22 cohort completed placements at a variety of organisations including Birmingham City FC Community Trust, Gazebo Theatre, GirlGrind and Warwickshire Cricket Foundation.  

Nicola Turner MBE, CEO of United By 2022, said:

“We’re delighted to celebrate the brilliant achievements of our Gen22 participants, some of whom have overcome significant challenges, as they complete our social action programme. Gen22 is a vital free initiative, providing support, guidance and skills training for young people who might otherwise struggle to access these opportunities.

“As we reflect on the success of our participants, I continue to be inspired by their stories. Every individual has shown incredible resilience and determination, and I hope Gen22 has provided them with the confidence and skills to go forward and thrive. The programme is a true collaboration and I’d like to thank all of our partner organisations for their support.”

At the event, United By 2022 also announced the relaunch of the Gen22 programme in partnership with Avison Young.

Nicola Turner MBE added: “Gen22 highlights the importance of investing in the next generation and creating new skills pathways for those in need of additional support. Thanks to funding from Avison Young, we’re so pleased that the programme can continue to make a difference and deliver positive social impact across the region. We’d like to thank Avison Young for their generous support and we can’t wait to welcome the next Gen22 cohort.”

David Martin, Principal at Avison Young, said:

“It’s been a real privilege to see first-hand the positive impact delivered by the Gen22 programme and the achievements of its participants. We’re proud to support this important initiative and we hope this will help to empower even more young people across the region, and ensure that every individual has the support they need to succeed.”

Gazebo Theatre was one of the 14 organisations that took part in this year’s Gen22 programme. Denise Orton Brown, Creative Training and Education Manager, comments:

“It was fantastic to visit Black Country Living Museum to celebrate Gen22 - what a fantastic place to celebrate our young people and their achievements!”

For more information, visit www.unitedby2022.com.