Young people from across west London who have overcome barriers to employment and education were recognised at a graduation ceremony in Southall last Thursday (25 June 2026) after completing a programme designed to help them into work, training and further education.
The Street Elite graduation took place at The Green Quarter, where participants, mentors and partner organisations were joined by the Mayor of Ealing, Councillor Faduma Mohamed, to celebrate the end of the nine-month programme.
Street Elite, run by The Change Foundation with support from Berkeley Foundation and Ealing Council, works with 16 to 25-year-olds facing challenges including unemployment, exclusion from education and crime. Through sport, mentoring and employability support, it aims to help young people develop confidence and practical skills.
According to The Change Foundation, more than 1,000 young people have taken part in Street Elite across London and Birmingham over the past 13 years, with 86% of participants progressing into employment, education or training.
Navjeet Sira, chief executive of The Change Foundation, said: “Today’s graduation celebrates the determination and achievements of our latest cohort and the opportunities they have created for themselves.”
Piers Clanford, chairman of Berkeley Foundation, added: “The achievements celebrated today show what can be achieved when young people are given the right support, encouragement and belief.”
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