Mark Fawcett on Gen Z’s desire to learn useful skills

Mark founded We Are Futures, then known as National Schools Partnership, in 2004. Today he and his team work with businesses who want to use their strength and reach for good in the development and experiences of young people. We Are Futures develop strategies and create programmes that help brands including Samsung, Sky, NatWest and McDonalds connect with young audiences, whether through CSR, employment opportunities or educating them in skills and knowledge that fall outside the curriculum.It was working with new recruits in the army that sparked Mark’s interest in the power of experiential learning, skills development and new opportunities to transform the lives of young people, regardless of background. Upon leaving the army in 1995 he joined World Challenge, the youth expeditions organisation, as training director then head of marketing and ultimately, managing director. In that time they took it from 10 expeditions a year for wealthyl children to 350 expeditions annually for a vast range of young people, and launched it in the US before its eventual sale to TUI.Today, We Are Futures brings a unique mix of research and insights, brilliant creativity and strong content, digital and production skills to help business, charity and government clients to better understand and connect with young people. Alongside their 4 proprietary networks for teachers, young leaders and parents that have a wealth of experience to help prepare young people for adult life, educating them about personal, professional and emotional issues they would face.Mark is also a trustee of the British Exploring Society.

Mike specialises in creating content in the media space: in entertainment (film, TV, gaming, streaming, platforms), internet culture, technology, and the creator economy. He previously spent three years (2021-2024) as MediaCat Magazine's Executive Editor, growing the publication's readership and following, largely from scratch; during which time he launched their podcast and monthly newsletter. Prior to that he was Editor at The Marketing Society (2013-2021), where he launched a bi-monthly publication which ran for 14 issues, as well as a successful podcast. Mike is also a street photographer and film and TV blogger, and once came second in a Creative Review competition to rewrite Trainspotting's 'choose life' speech. He's proud of that one.