MediaCity joins forces with Empower Youth Zone to support Salford’s young talent

Empower Youth Zone (EMPOWER), the youth work charity behind HideOut Youth Zone in East Manchester and the upcoming Salford Youth Zone (SYZ), has announced MediaCity as its latest patron donor ahead of SYZ’s July launch.

MedaCity will be supporting the charity with an extensive volunteering and business support programme over the next four years as a Landsec Futures employability partner.

MediaCity X Empower Youth Zone

As a UK hub for the creative industries, MediaCity will work closely with SYZ and its partners to provide access into its creative spaces and businesses while helping facilitate ways into the industry which may have previously felt out of reach.

Support from MediaCity and the fund will also significantly aid the continued development of SYZ, situated adjacent to Belvedere Road and Broadwalk in Pendleton and will provide over 200 volunteering days each year.

The Youth Zone recently opened free membership and is set to support thousands of young people in the city.

Adam Farricker, CEO of Empower Youth Zones, said: “Our partnership with Landsec is another powerful step towards our mission to support young people across Greater Manchester. MediaCity sits at the heart of the city, and we want our young people to feel connected to its energy and community spirit.

“Young people are full of potential but often need the right support to overcome the barriers they face and truly believe in themself.

“Together, with the MediaCity team and Landsec, we’re working to ensure every young person, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to grow, succeed, and move towards a better future.”

MediaCity’s £100,000 commitment over the next four years builds on Landsec’s strong track record of community investment.

Landsec take over MediaCity

Landsec, who have recently acquired full ownership of MediaCity, is committed to creating places that deliver lasting positive impact for both communities and the environment.

It joins the growing EMPOWER patron community, funding vital services that enable young people to break down barriers, unlock potential, and build brighter futures.

Stories – Brought to Life

As part of its partnership, SYZ has also been named the Charity Partner for Stories – Brought to Life, a major new immersive art experience that launched on the 2nd of May in MediaCity.

Created by FRAMELESS Creative in collaboration with the National Portrait Gallery, the exhibition brings to life iconic figures from British history and culture through world-class digital storytelling.

Martin Chown, MediaCity Managing Director said: “Salford is an important part of our journey, and deepening our roots here reflects our commitment to enriching the communities we’re part of. Partnering with EMPOWER will help us continue to drive forward a thriving
creative community while supporting talented young people.

“MediaCity has become a cornerstone of Salford’s identity, helping the city attract leading businesses and driving investment into the city.

“It’s a bridge between Salford and the creative industries, and we want to ensure local people feel like a career in the creative industries is within their reach. EMPOWER’s arrival in Salford will make a material difference to young people and the wider community, so we’re proud to be supporting the team.”

Find out more about Empower Youth Zones

You can find out more about Empower Youth Zones by clicking here