Boss Your Future: Sparking Hope and Building Futures at Asda Farnworth
Posted on:
When we created the Boss Your Future initiative under the Genuine Futures programme, we weren’t just launching a support scheme—we were building a movement. A movement that says no young person should be written off, regardless of their past, circumstances, or postcode.
Recently, that movement landed at Asda Farnworth, where we ran an awareness and community support campaign to raise the profile of our work and connect directly with young people and families in the heart of the community. The day wasn’t just successful—it was transformational.
A Day of Real Impact
From the moment we arrived, we were warmly welcomed by the Asda Farnworth team, whose support set the tone for a powerful day. They understood straight away that this wasn’t just another information stand—it was about offering a lifeline.
We set up near the entrance with our team, banners, and a QR code linking directly to our Meet & Motivate registration form. But the most important thing we brought was real conversation.
We spoke with dozens of local families, young people, and passersby. Many had never heard of Genuine Futures or Boss Your Future, but once they understood our mission—to support young people aged 15–24 who are not in education, employment, or training (NEET)—they were immediately engaged.
Some approached nervously. Others opened up straight away. All shared one common thread: they felt the system hadn’t supported them. We were there to show that someone finally would.
“We Need to Be in the Places Young People Already Trust”
Mike Alleyne, Director of Genuine Futures, summed up the power of the day:
“What made this event so impactful is that we met people where they are—in a space they already know and trust. Supermarkets are where life happens. By being present, approachable, and open, we created conversations that wouldn’t happen in a classroom or office. That’s where real engagement starts.”
Salford Success: Real Lives, Real Change
One of the most powerful things about the event was that we weren’t just talking about what could happen—we shared what’s already happening.
In Salford, where Boss Your Future first launched, we’ve seen incredible success. Thanks to our dedicated team, strong partnerships, and community-led approach, we’ve helped dozens of young people make real, lasting change.
Some of our proudest moments include:
- Young people are starting their own valeting and cleaning businesses, using tools, skills, and confidence developed through the programme.
- Others are securing full-time employment in construction, logistics, and the digital sector.
- Several are returning to education or training after feeling excluded for years.
- Dramatic boosts in mental health, resilience, and purpose—reflected in feedback, behaviour, and progress.
One 18-year-old from Salford said:
“This programme made me feel like I actually mattered. Like I wasn’t just a statistic or a problem. They helped me believe in myself again.”
Powered by Partnership: Bolton CVS and the Bolton Fund
Much of our expansion—including the Farnworth event—has been made possible through funding support from Bolton CVS via the Bolton Fund. This support has allowed us to grow our reach, deliver high-quality sessions, and increase our visibility across Greater Manchester.
With this support, we’ve been able to:
- Run more Meet & Motivate events
- Reach hidden and hard-to-engage young people
- Collaborate with youth services, schools, and businesses
- Build lasting routes into training, employment, and enterprise
The Bolton Fund is more than just a grant—it’s an investment in long-term, community-driven change.
A Community Coming Together
The Farnworth event was brought to life by volunteers and supporters who believe deeply in the mission. One of the key organisers was Gill Kruglowski, a dedicated volunteer support worker with a long-standing passion for youth development.
Reflecting on the day, Gill shared:
“It was incredible to see so many people stopping to talk, asking questions, and taking flyers. But the real magic was in the young people who came back after walking past once or twice—they were curious, but cautious. And by the end of the day, they were asking how they could sign up. That’s why we do it.”
Her dedication and energy helped make the day a true success, creating a warm and welcoming environment for everyone who stopped by.
A Holistic Approach to Change
Our model isn’t just about helping people into jobs. It’s about giving them the confidence, mindset, and support system to build a life that works for them. Through Boss Your Future, we offer:
- Life and employability skills training
- 1-to-1 mentoring and emotional support
- Enterprise and business development sessions
- Outdoor activities and team-building days
- Volunteering and work experience placements
And through our partners—Entrepreneurs Unlocked, Recycle IT, and Digi Den—we connect young people with real-world pathways and community-based opportunities.
A Call to Action for Youth-Focused Organisations
We know we can’t do this alone. There are many brilliant organisations already working with young people across Greater Manchester—and we want to work with you.
If you’re part of a youth charity, training provider, school, community centre, housing association, or local business, we invite you to connect with us.
Together, we can:
- Identify and support more NEET young people
- Create aligned pathways into training, enterprise, and jobs
- Share spaces, ideas, and resources
- Deliver joined-up, wraparound support that works
Let’s build a collaborative ecosystem that gives every young person the chance to thrive.
What’s Next?
Given the success of the Farnworth event, we’re now working with Asda to confirm a return date.
We’re also exploring more outreach events across the region, using public spaces like supermarkets and libraries to break down barriers and bring support directly to those who need it.
Final Reflections
If there’s one thing this day confirmed, it’s that young people aren’t disengaged—they’re just waiting for someone to show up and believe in them.
In Salford, we’ve already proven what’s possible with the right support. In Farnworth, we saw that potential spark again and again. And with the continued backing of Bolton CVS, Asda Farnworth, and our incredible volunteers—we’re ready to take it even further.
So, whether you’re a young person who feels stuck, a parent looking for help, or an organisation ready to collaborate—this is your invitation.
Join us. Let’s Boss Your Future—together.