About Us

Set up in 2015, Social Ark empowers talented and resilient young people to use their lived experiences to create innovative social enterprises that address the issues they care about. We believe in the power of young people to lead meaningful change and provide the tools, guidance, and encouragement needed to transform their ideas into impactful initiatives.

Our bespoke social, entrepreneurial, and cultural youth programmes help young people recognise and build on their unique strengths. Participants grow in confidence, expand their networks, and form lasting friendships while learning to use their voices to lead the changes they want to see in their communities and beyond.

Inclusivity is at the heart of our work. We celebrate the individuality and creativity of young people, prioritising those with experience in the Criminal Justice System, Care settings, or as Young Carers. We work to transform their experiences into strengths and opportunities for growth while addressing systemic economic, class, and racial injustices.

The Social Ark Family includes supporters and alumni who shape and steer our work through roles on our board, youth steering group, and programme co-design teams. Many alumni also co-facilitate our programmes, ensuring that lived experience remains at the core of everything we do.

Social Ark has supported over 1,500 young changemakers, helping them grow in confidence, amplify their voices, and build a fairer, brighter future while realising and reaching their potential.


Our Mission

Our mission is to create a ripple effect of positive change by empowering young people to harness their lived experiences and talents. Through skills, confidence, and unwavering support, we enable them to lead the change they aspire to see in the world.


We envision an equal and equitable society where young people are celebrated for their ambitions and supported to achieve their goals, regardless of where they come from

Our Vision


Our Values

Our values guide everything we do. We are committed to inclusiveness, equality, equity, trust, respect, and empowerment for all—breaking down barriers of race, religion, class, and other social divides to build a fairer, more connected world.