Meet the Agents: Changemakers Shaping a Better Future
Say hello to this year’s incredible Agents - a group of bold, unstoppable changemakers from Bolton, Chester, Manchester, London, Southampton, and Belfast.
These young leaders joined The Agency creative entrepreneurship programme, came up with inspiring ideas, and are now bringing them to life. From self-defence classes for young women in Southampton to a magazine amplifying voices in Manchester, and a gaming community tackling loneliness in London, they’re creating a better future for our communities.
Armed with creativity, resilience, and big ideas, they’re tackling the issues that matter most, and doing it with passion and purpose. Scroll down to meet the Agents!
THE AGENCY CHESTER
Produced by Storyhouse, working within LacheAlice – Meraki Production Company
A community-led production company will co-create a film with residents of Lache, showcasing their strengths and stories. The project will culminate in a celebration event for the first screening.
Chesters – Mental Health Workshops
A series of creative workshops in primary schools will support children’s mental health, leading to a co-created performance that raises awareness and removes stigma.
Finlay – Guitar Library
Workshops teaching young people to play guitar will form the foundation of this project. A guitar "library" will ensure that more young people have access to instruments and resources.
Nicola – Pet Food Bank
This initiative will provide support for families struggling to care for their pets during the cost-of-living crisis. A food bank, equipment swap shop, and pet play items library are planned.
THE AGENCY MANCHESTER
Produced by Contact, working within Moston and HarpurheyBilawal – Walking Group
A walking group for young men struggling with mental health, particularly grief, will create a supportive space for healing.
Jinmi – Youth Career Project
This career-focused programme will help young people explore their options and equip them with the skills they need to achieve their goals.
Larochelle – Youth-Led Magazine
A magazine amplifying youth voices and showcasing art from Moston and Harpurhey will provide a platform for young people to express themselves.
THE AGENCY BOLTON
Produced by Octagon Theatre, working within FarnworthBailey and Matthew – Football Beyond Limits
Weekly football sessions will provide young people with training while supporting their mental health and wellbeing.
Safa and Abdullahi – One Voice, Many Stories
A safe, welcoming space for young refugees, immigrants, and asylum seekers will offer creative activities, practical support, and resources to empower families and build community connections.
Zenab – Talk It Out
This project will deliver workshops designed to help young people manage stress through creative activities, team-building exercises, and outdoor experiences.
THE AGENCY LONDON
Produced by Battersea Arts Centre, working within BatterseaAiza – Justice Jerseys
Through a campaign and panel discussions, this project will address inequality in women’s sports, promoting awareness with the creation of "Justice Jerseys."
Jayce – Community Gaming Lab
An e-gaming community which will bring people together, tackling loneliness and helping gamers feel more confident and connected.
Tremayne, Taleah, and Joseph – Rap Off
A rap tournament designed for 15–17 year olds, who want to create their own music in a music studio, as an alternative to drill music. The winner will produce a paid-for EP.
THE AGENCY BELFAST
produced by New Lodge Arts working within North BelfastAimee and Cara – H.A.L.T
This podcast will amplify the experiences of families and individuals navigating terminal illness and grief. It will create space for open conversations, fostering connection and support.
Ashleigh and Máire – Silent Struggles
Through a podcast, this project will tackle the stigma surrounding eating disorders. It will feature personal stories and expert advice to highlight the importance of discussing these often-overlooked mental health challenges.
Leona and Brogan - Rewritten Narratives
A short film addressing mental health and social issues, this project will empower young people in North Belfast by showing that their voices matter, especially in communities where many feel unheard.
Molly and Mya - Boldly You
This project will create a resource hub to support young girls facing bullying. The website will foster resilience, confidence, and self-esteem through workshops, videos, downloadable guides, and inspirational stories.
THE AGENCY SOUTHAMPTON
Produced by Energise Me, working within St Mary's & NorthamAayan and Zizi – Beyond the Block
A comic book will educate young people on avoiding gang involvement, using storytelling to spark important conversations.
Chris – Harvest of Hope
A cooking club for young people will teach practical skills to turn food bank supplies into nourishing meals, helping them support their families.
Fiza – Empress Her
A creative space will be dedicated to young Muslim women, offering arts and crafts, sports and workshops. This will launch in SO14.
Hana – Southampton Festival (working name)
A one-day festival will celebrate the diverse cultures of Southampton, fostering unity through art, food, and performances.
Hibah – Veil of Valour
This self-defence club will help young women, particularly those from Muslim and ethnic minority backgrounds, feel safer and more confident.
Beyond Funding: The Journey Continues
For those whose projects were not selected for funding, the journey is far from over. Many of these Agents are refining their ideas, seeking external opportunities, and supporting funded projects. Their determination to create change is a testament to their resilience and drive.
We’re excited to support these Agents as they develop their projects over the coming months. Stay tuned for updates on their inspiring work and join us in celebrating the changemakers of 2024–2025.