Creating Opportunities and Developing Leaders
One of our greatest successes over the last five years has been our commitment to creating opportunities for our participants, staff, and volunteers to thrive in their areas of interest. Whether it’s supporting a young coach in gaining the experience needed to launch a career or helping an aspiring content creator develop their skills by capturing special moments on the court, we believe basketball is just the beginning. The ability to play the sport is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to building meaningful pathways for personal and professional growth.
This work has never been more important. Leeds faces significant challenges when it comes to youth employment and opportunity:
24% of Leeds’ communities are among the most deprived nationally.
16,800 people in Leeds are unemployed, with a 4.1% unemployment rate.
Youth unemployment is disproportionately higher in inner-city areas.
Many young people lack access to mentors and career guidance.
There is a growing disconnect between businesses and local youth.
These statistics highlight the urgent need to bridge the gap between talent and opportunity at LDM we are stepping up to meet that challenge.
To build on our success, in September 2025, we will be launching our Leadership Programme, a unique initiative designed to equip young people with the skills, confidence, and connections to succeed, not just in basketball, but in life. This programme will go beyond the court, tackling broader societal issues and preparing participants for positive destinations in education, employment, and leadership roles within their communities.
A major part of the programme will focus on connecting our young people with established organisations and professionals, exposing them to positive role models and providing clear pathways to success. Through mentoring, life changing trips, and hands on experience, participants will gain invaluable insight into various careers, learning directly from those who have walked the path before them. These connections will not only inspire but also offer tangible opportunities, from work placements to job offers, ensuring young people have the guidance and support needed to take their next steps with confidence.
Stellon Forbes, started with us as a player at 16, 3 years later he has started his own media company with LDM as his first clients!
We will utilise the diverse skills of our coaching staff and volunteers to support young people with all types of backgrounds and needs.
Crucially, this programme will also help strengthen our basketball infrastructure, providing LDM with a growing pool of talented coaches, table officials, referees, content creators, journalists, administrators, and many other essential roles needed to run a serious basketball organisation. However, our commitment to creating opportunities goes far beyond basketball. Participants will also have the chance to gain recognised qualifications, further boosting their employability in a range of industries. Through mentoring, training, and work experience, we will support young people in securing places at universities, apprenticeships, and employment across a wide range of fields. Whether their aspirations lie in sport, media, business, or beyond, we aim to provide the skills and networks they need to achieve their ambitions and build successful futures.
Get Involved – Help Us Make a Difference
To make this vision a reality, we need the support of funders, local businesses, and professionals who share our passion for empowering young people. By investing in this programme, you can help create life-changing opportunities for young people in Leeds, ensuring they have the skills, connections, and confidence to succeed. Whether it’s through financial support, offering work experience placements, delivering workshops, or becoming a mentor, your involvement can make a lasting impact.
If you’re a business or funder interested in supporting this initiative, we’d love to hear from you! Get in touch at info@letsdomore.org.uk.