Burberry Inspire

In today’s digital world, creativity is fundamental. It is a critical human skill that young people need to navigate the uncertainties and challenges brought by the digital era, especially in the workforce. However, not all young people have the same opportunity to unlock that creativity. Many are limited by the lack of spaces, resources, and support. This limitation can hinder their personal growth and capacity to thrive in their communities, negatively impacting their well-being and society’s overall progress. 

In response, IYF is committed to creating high-quality opportunities that break down barriers to equip young people, nurture their creativity, and foster positive transformations. Nurturing creativity has extensive positive effects: it helps young people reach and improve higher-order thinking skills, improves mental health, boosts confidence, and creates a greater sense of purpose and connection. Being part of creative spaces enables youth to exercise their agency, innovate and inspire others. 

In 2023, IYF partnered with The Burberry Foundation to create Burberry Inspire, a global youth engagement program designed to provide safe spaces outside of schools for young people to explore their creativity, develop new skills and foster positive change in their lives and in their communities. Now in its second year of implementation, the program has a global network of 13 youth-serving organizations across five regions worldwide. 

Burberry Inspire incorporates Creative Youth Development principles by centering youth perspectives, valuing their lived experiences, and elevating their authentic voices. It also uses an assets-based approach, building on young people’s strengths and fostering meaningful relationships with peers and adults to promote creative thinking and self-expression.

In March 2024, Burberry Inspire launched its inaugural global Burberry Inspire Young Leaders (YLs) Program for young people aged 17-20. Through this initiative, 20 participants representing the program’s regional partners are addressing social issues in their local communities through the power of storytelling and creative self-expression. YLs are also benefiting from career mentorship from Burberry employees to help them to prepare for their futures. 

Because creativity can take different forms, Burberry Inspire deeply engages young people to nurture their creative skills through a variety of high-quality, culturally relevant projects offered by each regional partner. Program activities span from design and the creative arts to STEM-related skill development, entrepreneurship, and leadership, all aimed at breaking down educational and economic barriers. 

By fostering creativity, Burberry Inspire is building a brighter and more inclusive future, where young people can thrive and create a meaningful impact on their communities and the world.