Emilie’s story: Young voices deserve to be at the forefront of change

Emilie, one of our Youth Board members, reflects on her journey with us and shares why youth voice matters and how data can drive meaningful change for young people across London. 

By the time I joined the Youth Board, several months into volunteering, I’d already seen the impact of London Youth’s work firsthand. I realised that youth work isn’t just a service but a lifeline. London Youth supports hundreds of organisations across the capital, so I wanted to help ensure that the support reflects what young people need. 

I love London Youth’s emphasis on involving youth voice. Young voices deserve to be at the forefront of change. Being part of the Youth Board means taking a seat at the table and starting to shape the services that affect us all. Too often, policies and programmes are designed for young people rather than with them. Having young people involved at a strategic level isn’t just symbolic – it’s essential.  

While we have a lot in common, youth experiences aren’t one-size-fits-all. The Youth Board has been an inspiring space for that diversity to shine. One of the biggest personal shifts has been learning to advocate for myself as a young person.  

What young people really need 

Youth work offers accessible, inclusive services. It provides support when things get tough and opens doors to opportunities. But youth work can’t do it alone. Schools, businesses, policymakers and communities all have a role to play, to ensure no young person is left behind. Policy needs to be bolder and broader for young people to feel they hold a stake in the future.  

We need real opportunities. We need financial security, dignity, and the hope that our efforts will amount to something. We need employers willing to invest in us, not just demand experience we’ve never been given the chance to gain. Job insecurity and lack of opportunity don’t magically disappear at 21. Affordable transport and housing, mental health support, a sense of community – these matter just as much as a decent job. We need to feel like we have a future worth striving for.  

Using data to strengthen youth work 

I’ve been working with the team at London Youth to develop an interactive dashboard that maps youth work in London. It helps turn isolated efforts into a cohesive network, as youth work organisations can see where their work intersects and build stronger working relationships. It’s empowering to feel that my work helps organisations better support young people.  

At London Youth, I’ve enjoyed being at the intersection of research, data, and youth advocacy. I’m inspired by the creativity, ambition and sheer determination of young people across London to make a difference in their communities.  

Emilie, Youth Board member 

Want to make a real difference? Be the voice of your generation and shake things up with other young leaders. Join our Youth Board!