“We’re Not Waiting for Change — We’re Building It.”
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Genuine Futures CIC launches the Young Futures Movement: Real Voices. Real Stories. Real Change.
Bolton, Greater Manchester — In a time when too many young people feel unheard or left behind, Genuine Futures CIC is leading a powerful movement built on belief, belonging, and second chances.
The organisation has officially launched the Young Futures Movement — a youth-led social action initiative combining enterprise, mentoring, and storytelling to help young people aged 15–24 across Bolton unlock their potential and create change in their communities.
Lived Experience Leads the Way
Founded by Sam Smith and Mike Alleyne, Genuine Futures CIC was born from lived experience — care, homelessness, exclusion, and the justice system. Their mission: to turn lived experience into leadership.
“I’ve lived the barriers these young people face — that’s why we built something that tears them down,” said Sam Smith, Founder and Co-Director.
“We don’t just talk about opportunity — we create it, through enterprise, action, and belief.”
“We’re turning lived experience into leadership,” added Mike Alleyne, Co-Director.
“The power is in giving young people a voice — and then stepping back to let them use it.”
Boss Your Future: Proven Success in Bolton
At the core of the movement’s success is the Boss Your Future Bolton Programme — funded by the Bolton Fund and delivered in partnership with Entrepreneurs Unlocked and Recycle IT.
Over the past six months, the programme has supported more than 40 young people aged 15–24 who were not in education, employment, or training (NEET) — helping them gain qualifications, confidence, and real-world experience through enterprise.
Participants have developed business ideas, hosted events, and gained hands-on skills through We Shine Any Car, the youth-led car wash and social enterprise based at The Scrappers. Many now serve as mentors, ambassadors, or Youth Board members.
“The transformation has been remarkable,” said Sam Smith. “We’ve seen young people go from feeling invisible to becoming confident, capable leaders who are now mentoring others.”
Following this success, Genuine Futures is now recruiting for the next Boss Your Future Bolton cohort, starting early 2026. The programme is open to young people aged 15–24, including those who are NEET, care-experienced, or facing barriers to education or work.
Interested participants or referrers can contact hello@genuinefutures.co.uk or visit the Young Futures Hub at The Scrappers, Bolton.
Enterprise Meets Social Action
The Young Futures Hub is a creative, open-door space where young people can learn, create, and connect. The Hub links directly to We Shine Any Car, a youth-led enterprise providing flexible, paid work experience and teaching teamwork, customer service, and digital media.
“Entrepreneurship is the bridge between hope and opportunity,” said David Morgan, Director of Entrepreneurs Unlocked.
“What Genuine Futures is doing through We Shine Any Car is real-world transformation.”
John Hastings, Director of Recycle IT, added:
“When enterprise meets inclusion, that’s when communities grow stronger. Recycle IT is proud to stand with Genuine Futures to create pathways that last.”
The Power of Place and Partnership
None of this would be possible without the generosity of The Scrappers, who provided Genuine Futures with a home, workspace, and belief in the mission.
“We’re proud to have Genuine Futures here at The Scrappers,” said Terry Walker, Director of The Scrappers.
“What they’re doing for young people is incredible. We’ve seen first-hand how this car wash and hub are changing lives — giving young people pride, purpose, and hope. It’s great to see Bolton coming together for something so positive.”
Join the Movement
Genuine Futures is inviting local businesses, schools, and community organisations to join the Young Futures Movement — by mentoring, volunteering, sponsoring, or referring young people.
“When you give young people the tools to lead, they don’t just take part — they take ownership,” said Mike Alleyne.
Visit www.genuinefutures.co.uk or email hello@genuinefutures.co.uk to learn more.
Follow @GenuineFutures on social media to hear Real Voices. Real Stories. Real Change.