GenNext Power: Empowering Young People Through Sport and Life Skills by Elohor Irikefe

Lifegate Communities has launched GenNxt Power, a free, year-long youth programme for young people aged 12–18 in Walsall. Funded by the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner through the My Community Fund, the project aims to reduce youth violence and anti-social behaviour by providing a safe, positive environment where young people can participate in sports, develop life skills, and build confidence.

Meeting on the last Saturday of each month, the programme combines physical activities such as football, basketball, badminton, tennis, and team games with workshops on goal setting, leadership, resilience, communication, emotional well-being, and decision-making. The project was co-designed with young people to address issues including boredom, peer pressure, and limited access to positive activities.

 The first session, held in June, focused on goal setting through a bowling activity and SMART goal workshops. Throughout the year, participants will also engage in community service, anti-violence campaigns, and youth-led events, with five Community Youth Champions selected to promote positive peer influence.

Lifegate Communities thanks the Office of the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner and the LifeYouths coordinators at Lifegate Outreach Centre for supporting this initiative, which aims to empower young people to become confident, resilient, and active contributors to safer and stronger communities.