Futures Academy
Next Cohort: Spring 2026 | Central
Manchester
Futures Academy is an 8-week transformative education and empowerment programme designed to equip participants with essential life skills, financial literacy, career development and civic / cultural awareness that traditional education often overlooks.
Through interactive workshops, mentoring and community engagement, participants aged 18 at 30 build confidence, develop professional and creative skills and connect with a supportive network of Black professionals and changemakers.
Over the eight weeks, participants explore identity, purpose and vision, gaining a clearer sense of direction; develop financial literacy and wealth-building skills; strengthen their employability and career readiness; and learn the fundamentals of entrepreneurship and innovation. They also build confidence in tech and digital skills, improve wellbeing and emotional resilience, and gain leadership experience through civic and community engagement.
The programme concludes with a showcase and graduation ceremony where participants present their projects, celebrate their achievements and join the Black Futures alumni network. Each graduate leaves with a certificate, new professional connections, greater self-belief and the tools to pursue education, entrepreneurship and career opportunities.
Benefits of Completing Futures Academy
Upon Successful completion of the 8 week programme, participants can expect to benefit from the following:
Showcase & Graduation Ceremony
Participants celebrate their achievements with an audience of peers, mentors and industry experts
Certificate
Each graduate is awarded with a certificate acknowledging their hard work and dedication. Leaving with greater self-belief and the tools to pursue education, entrepreneurship and career opportunities.
Priority Access to The Black Futures Alumni Network.
Participants gain access to new professional connections opening up a wealth of knowledge and opportunities for their future endeavours.
Register your interest in Futures Academy
Eligibility and Selection Criteria
To apply, applicants must:
• Be aged 18–30 years old
• Live in or be able to travel to Greater Manchester
• Commit to attending all 8 weekly sessions (10 AM – 1 PM)
• Demonstrate an interest in personal development, leadership, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, or creative/digital skills
• Show a positive attitude toward community collaboration and learning
• Applicants from Black and Global Majority backgrounds and those facing social or economic barriers are especially encouraged to apply
Selection will consider:
• Motivation and purpose
• Potential for impact
• Commitment to completion
• Diversity of experiences
• Balanced representation
✅ Participation is free
✅ Transport support and light refreshments will be provided
✅ Graduates will receive a Certificate of Completion and access to the Black Futures Network
