Charity helping ‘next generation of leaders’ celebrates 15 years

This summer a charity that helps to inspire black African and Caribbean boys is celebrating 15 years of work with the community.

Southside Young Leaders Academy (SYLA), in Shorncliffe Road, Walworth, works with black boys aged eight to 18, through a programme of character building, life skills and academic tuition.

The charity focusses on boys from low-income families in Lambeth and Southwark facing multiple challenges that impact their educational and life.

In honour of its 15th anniversary on July 15, SYLA is holding a series of celebratory community events. 

Residents are invited to participate in the charity’s Parent Community Sponsored Walk in Burgess Park on  Saturday, a Pan African and Culture Sports Day at Battersea Park Millennium Arena on July 8, and a free Summer Leadership Programme from July 24 to 28.

The funds raised through these events will contribute to running SYLA’s Young Leaders Programme, which includes tuition in  business and enterprise, financial literacy, employability skills, public speaking, conflict resolution, sports and English and maths.

Charlotte Prendergast, SYLA’s chief executive, said:  “The challenges and lack of opportunities black boys face can leave them with a sense of frustration and low self-esteem, which means the astonishing talent of these boys risks going to waste.

“Our Young Leaders Programme is an early intervention that inspires boys to fulfil their potential, live out their aspirations and become future business and community leaders.” 

Pictured top: A SYLA pupil at one of the academy’s Saturday activities (Picture: Daniel McNair)