Welcoming Our First Youth Ambassador – Dan

Introducing Our First Youth Ambassador

We are incredibly proud to share an exciting milestone for YMCA Cornwall — the appointment of Dan, our first Youth Ambassador to the YMCA England and Wales Youth Ambassador Programme.

This marks an important step forward for both Dan and our organisation. Dan has been up in London to attend his official induction with the YMCA England & Wales Youth Ambassador group, and the national meeting.

What Is the YMCA Youth Ambassador Programme?

The YMCA Youth Ambassador Programme brings together young people aged 18–30 from YMCAs across England and Wales to represent the voices, needs, and experiences of young people.

Nominated by their local YMCA, Youth Ambassadors use their lived experience to help shape policy, attend national and international events, and act as spokespeople for youth voice within the organisation. The programme offers high‑quality training and development opportunities, supporting passionate young people who want to make a meaningful difference and create positive change.

Dan’s story

Dan’s appointment is particularly special. He has courageously shared his journey through addiction with local dignitaries during a visit to YMCA Cornwall. Since then, his determination, honesty, and commitment to personal growth have been truly inspiring. To now see him stepping into a national role where he can use his experience to help improve outcomes for young people is something we are immensely proud of.

Dan says: “Being chosen as a Youth Ambassador really means a lot to me. I’ve come a long way on this journey, and having the opportunity to use my past experiences to help represent more young people and be part of real change is something I’m really proud of.”

Geraint Richards, Duchy of Cornwall’s Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Ambassador, and former High Sheriff recently visited YMCA Cornwall, and met with Daniel. He says: “I had the privilege of meeting Dan when I visited YMCA in Penzance earlier in the year. Dan is an inspiring young man and his lived experience and expertise will be used to great effect in helping other young people in Cornwall, in addition to developing his own career pathway. I am absolutely delighted that he has been appointed as YMCA Cornwall’s first ever Youth Ambassador and look forward to following his journey.”

Kim Stuart, Assistant Housing Manager at YMCA Cornwall, says: “Dan has worked incredibly hard on himself to get to this point. Seeing him grow in confidence and now take on this opportunity has been amazing. This reflects how far he has come, and the impact of YMCA Cornwall in supporting young people, giving them a home and opportunities to thrive and have a voice.”

Over the coming months, Dan will be sharing his experiences through photos, his own reflections, and video updates during his time as a Youth Ambassador. Dan will be fully involved in this process and sees it as a powerful way to reflect visually on his journey and the impact of his voice.

All content will be shared with Dan’s consent, and we are grateful for his openness and enthusiasm in helping bring this programme to life.

Why This Matters

This is a proud moment for YMCA Cornwall, and a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when young people are supported, believed in, and given the opportunity to belong, contribute and thrive.

Find out more here:

Youth Ambassador Programme