​​​ One Step at a Time

UNITED KINGDOM CHAPTER 

SASTRA United Kingdom :  Partnering with Befriend a Child for Youth Empowerment

SASTRA United Kingdom Chapter and Befriend a Child have positioned themselves as strategic partners to support young people in the UK, particularly those aged 14–16 who are struggling in life and education. This partnership is designed to provide additional support and act as a bridge between higher education and students in need, ensuring that vulnerable youth are not left behind.

Through this collaboration, students are connected to educational workshops and work experience opportunities across various industries, giving them a more holistic and realistic view of their career options. The program was first piloted in January 2017 with a group of eight students from Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, working closely with schools and parents to ensure meaningful impact.

The Council of Befriend a Child has embraced the Bright Champs Fellowship Programs, which aim to empower youth facing daily challenges by offering mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for self‑discovery. As part of this collective effort, the Befriend a Child–SASTRA Bright Champs Fellowship was officially launched in 2017. Groundwork has since begun, and it is inspiring to see the Youth Council, aged 14–16, taking the lead as mentors for the next generation of Fellows.

This initiative reflects SASTRA’s commitment to building inclusive ecosystems that nurture resilience, confidence, and leadership among young people helping them to overcome barriers, discover their potential, and step forward as agents of change in their communities.

OPEN FOR PARTNERSHIP : The Next Chapter 2025 - 2035 

Empowering Communities and Shaping the Future