Our mentoring programme supports young people in challenging stereotypes and negative behaviour, encouraging leadership and raising aspirations.
Who we are
45 young men and 25 male mentors.
Where we're based
Manchester
When we started
Oct-07
How we started
We came together at a conference, wanting to tackle youth violence and the negative portrayal of whole communities that was strongly affecting us. We wanted to become more confident, take more responsibility and work together to bring a sense of pride back to our community. The first RECLAIM took place over eight months and included mentoring, a conference, an academic support day and graduation.
Our work
We were all nominated for RECLAIM through our schools and families. As well as intensive mentoring, we have been involved in regular events including: producing and recording our own music video; training with the Fire Service for a day; business training and interview practice. We drew up an anti-violence manifesto and took part in a youth crime inquiry with MPs at Westminster. Through RECLAIM we have become positive role models and ambassadors for our area.
Future plans
We plan to extend into new areas across a diverse range of communities, regionally and nationally. A project for young women aged 12-14 has already begun in South Manchester. Our graduates are building on their leadership skills through public speaking and as role models.
Project website
http://www.reclaimproject.org.uk
RECLAIM makes us aware of our daily life mistakes and helps youth stay true to their dreams. It unites many people from different areas. There are people here who care enough to tell us from experience that we need to try hard and live up to our aspiration
Mohammed Ismail, RECLAIM mentee
