Young people from Arsenal in the Community joined hundreds of peers from across England and Wales to take part in the Premier League Inspires Challenge—a powerful initiative backed by the Premier League and Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) that uses football as a platform to empower 11–18-year-olds through life skills, mentoring, and social action.
The Arsenal team, made up of brilliant young girls, developed and presented a compelling campaign focused on promoting gender equality within their local communities. Their project resonated strongly, earning the highest number of votes in their heat and securing them a place at the Premier League Inspires Challenge celebration event in April.
Representing Arsenal with pride, our incredible participants from Beacon High School in Islington took centre stage at Wembley Stadium to showcase their social action project tackling gender inequality—this year’s nationwide challenge theme.
At Wembley, they joined representatives from over 40 clubs across the Premier League and English Football League, proudly sharing their ideas and impact. Former Lioness and Manchester City Women’s star Izzy Christiansen attended the event alongside key figures from the PFA, who came together to celebrate the achievements and voices of the next generation.
Dorran Clarke, teacher at Beacon High School, said "The Wembley Stadium visit and Premier League Inspire Challenge celebration event provided our students with an invaluable experience. They not only celebrated their achievements with other students but also connected with like-minded peers from across the nation, fostering a sense of community and shared accomplishment.
"The stadium tour ignited their passion for football history, while the challenge event allowed them to showcase their creativity and problem-solving skills on a national stage. This opportunity significantly boosted their confidence, broadened their horizon, and inspired them to pursue their goals with renewed determination and enthusiasm.
"It was a day of learning, inspiration, and celebration that they will cherish for years to come."
Arsenal in the Community delivers Premier League Inspires year-round across Islington, Hackney, and Camden, engaging young people through weekly sessions that build confidence, develop key life skills, and empower them to reach their full potential.
Launched in 2019, Premier League Inspires is designed to support young people who may be at risk of not fulfilling their potential. Through mentoring, workshops, and social action projects, the programme equips participants with the personal skills and attitudes needed to succeed in further education and employment.
Backed by the Premier League and PFA, the initiative continues to use the unifying power of football to inspire real, lasting change—both on and off the pitch.
Inspires
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