Alfie is a beacon for all young people across London.

He joined PTSA almost a year ago, in March 2023, through the Camden Council Pathway, an initiative aimed at providing individuals who are part of the NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) support programme with paid positions to explore potential career interests. At the time, Alfie admits, "He was a little lost." Growing up in care had affected his confidence, and he found himself sofa surfing with nowhere to live, relying on the support and generosity of friends to offer him somewhere to sleep. What he needed was a chance, and when PTSA offered to train him up as a youth and sports coach, Alfie grabbed the opportunity with both hands, dedicating 35 hours a week to learning what he describes as "a life-changing skillset." Now coaching PTSA's Under-8s and Under-15s age groups, Alfie is also training as a project manager so that he can get even more involved with all the good work that the organisation does in their surrounding communities. "Growing up in care, there were always people telling me that I wasn't going to make anything of my life," said Alfie. "I'll admit my confidence was very low, and, at times, I felt useless. "That all changed when I joined PTSA, where I was given so much support and encouragement from day one. In less than 12 months, I've already learned so much from being here. "When I came here, I couldn't really communicate and express myself properly, and now I'm leading coaching sessions and helping young kids find their own voice. "PTSA will be the thing that makes me; from here, the only way is up. I owe everybody here who has supported me so much."