No Young Person Left Behind: Alyas’s story

We believe that every young person deserves the opportunity to discover what they’re capable of. But too often, financial barriers can stand in their way. We see the difference a DofE programme makes when young people are given the chance and the support they need to succeed.

Alyas is one of those young people.

When he first started his DofE programme, after moving to the UK from Afghanistan, Alyas was determined to make his family proud. Like many of the young people who want to start their DofE costs can be too much. Thanks to funding, Alyas was able to begin his DofE and purchase the equipment he needed: a cricket bat, ball, and camping gear. He was able to take part fully and thrive.

“Through DofE, I’ve learnt English, made friends, and gained confidence. The volunteering and activities like cricket have helped me feel a part of my community and opened doors to new opportunities.”

Alyas has built confidence, improved his English, developed skills and discovered a passion for helping others. These are all opportunities that were made possible through the DofE. But without financial support, stories like Alyas’s may not exist.

Right now, 4.5 million young people in the UK live in poverty and that means missed chances, lost confidence, and futures shaped by hardship. We want to reach 250,000 more young people by 2026 and remove financial hardship as a barrier to a life-changing DofE programme. And it starts now, with young people already waiting for the chance to start their DofE journey today.