YEP Success: Young People Build a New App for Green Careers

Three former Youth Engagement Project (YEP) young people are celebrating a big achievement. They have helped to create a new digital tool. A tool that will connect young people in Cornwall with green job opportunities.

After YEP, the three became Community Researchers with the Institute for the Future of Work (IFLOW). They worked on a project about green skills and future jobs. They used their own life stories to guide the work. They once were NEET (not in education, employment, or training.) So they knew the real barriers young people face. They made sure young people’s voices led the design.

Their work helped shape Flourish. Flourish is a new app for young people in Cornwall. It links users to local green jobs and training. It also shows new chances to learn and grow. The team listened to the researchers’ journeys and needs. They made the app simple, clear, and useful. It answers real problems young people meet when starting work.

On Monday 2 March, the three researchers showed the app. The audience came from local services, schools, and business. The researchers joined a panel and spoke with confidence. They shared what they did on the project. They explained why youth‑led design matters. They showed how co‑production creates better chances for the future.

Their confidence and professionalism impressed everyone in the room. It showed how much they have grown since they first joined YEP. What began as a chance to build confidence has grown into real leadership. Their work will now help many more young people in Cornwall find sustainable and meaningful jobs.

This achievement shows their hard work and strength. It also shows the power of youth‑led research and why young people need a real voice in projects that affect them. When we listen to them, we build better tools. We also open doors to real change.

"This is a great example of what young people can achieve through the YEP project. These former participants have shown confidence, skill, and real leadership. We are so proud of how far they have come." - Tim Hunt (YEP Key Worker)

Well done to all three Community Researchers. Your work is already making a difference