Twenty-seven-year-old founder Martin Macfarlane and his charity Youth Trust, aims to develop and support projects for the benefit of young people that are otherwise unavailable through the government or the third sector.
“In today’s world we have to recognise that times have changed and I wish to play my part in retaining the Isle of Man as a nice and supportive place for young people to grow up - where they can be happy, enjoy life and prosper,” he said.
“Youth Trust shall develop and support projects that empower young people to lead healthy lifestyles and enable them to make informed decisions and choices about issues that affect their lives.”
Macfarlane, who has experience in centre-based youth work, street youth work and theory analysis said he also has the support of a diverse board of professionals from governance, education and marketing.
He added the charity wants to become a leading organisation that provides a voice on behalf of young people to representatives that can make a real difference to their concerns.
The charity is now looking to launch its first project next month, known as Youth.im, which will provide young people, parents and professionals on the island with an online resource of things to do, hot topics and to find people to talk to.
“The website will feature activities available to young people for when they are looking for things to do and have a more serious side providing informal education about matters affecting young people and where they can turn for help,” Macfarlane said.
“This project shall provide an opportunity to gain insight into young peoples’ supportive and informative needs to act as a prevention and intervention service.
“Essentially Youth.im could be the ‘go-to’ place to explore recreational activities, discover new opportunities and find someone to talk to in a time of need.”
