Reflecting on an Extraordinary Season
So much has happened in the life of M10 since our last update—it’s been a year marked by new relationships, exciting invitations, and unforgettable experiences. From being welcomed by The Royal Foundation, to attending The King’s Garden Party at Buckingham Palace, to receiving invites to the House of Lords and the Houses of Parliament, we have been deeply encouraged by the recognition and acknowledgement of our work.
We were also honoured to take part in a conference hosted by the Centre for Social Justice, further strengthening our commitment to advocating for young people across our region. Former students who received mentoring and coaching from our organisation, shared about the difference it made to their lives and also how it shaped their decision making. We were so proud of them.
Mark Libby (Head of Partnerships for CSJ) commented. "I really appreciate you taking the time to participate and very much hope you enjoyed the day - I’m sure we will all agree that the stars of the show were Coby and Jake (pictured above), and a special thank you to M10 for the panel on mentoring and sharing their experience. Our policy team left inspired, with the conversations and discussions providing loads of content to take back to Westminster. These discussions will be instrumental in shaping recommendations for Government and shaping much needed change."
Transforming Lives in Ensenada, Mexico
One of the most significant highlights of 2025 was our trip to Ensenada, Mexico. We took 35 students to help build two homes for families living in extreme poverty. It was an experience that challenged and changed every single one of us.
On returning, we hosted a celebration event at the Holiday Inn Conference Centre, where parents, families and friends came together to watch films from the trip and hear directly from the students about what the experience meant to them. The impact was profound—not just on the families whose lives were transformed, but on the students who discovered purpose, empathy and new confidence.
A Year of Leadership and Encouragement
This year also marked an important milestone in our organisational journey. We welcomed our new Chairman, Alistair Menzies, whose passion, belief and commitment have already strengthened our leadership.
Alistair said. "Qualifications, knowledge and experience are valuable – but it is the soft skills that are vitally important in building relationships – critical for success in all parts of our lives."
Leading a charity is both rewarding and challenging. There are moments when doubts creep in or when the challenges feel heavy. Having someone like Alistair stand with us—reminding us of the good we do—is a gift, and we are incredibly grateful.
It's also a good time to offer a word of thanks to our Trustees, Jane Pollard, Leah Roberts, Andrew Young, Allison Brunton, Anthony Pollard, and Jane Austin. Without these brilliant advisers it's difficult to know where M10 would be today.
Empowering Students in Newcastle
If you follow us on LinkedIn, you may have seen our recent work with Benfield School in Newcastle, made possible by the support of the Squires Foundation and Wave. Each week, we are connecting with students who face significant barriers to opportunity and disengagement from learning. These students are at the heart of our mission. Our vision has always been Preparing Today’s Youth for Tomorrow’s Opportunities—and we mean all young people, regardless of background.
We would love to offer students from schools like Benfield the opportunity to join us on future mission trips to Ensenada. That’s why we have created a bursary fund to support young people who may not otherwise have this chance.
If you would like to help make this life-changing opportunity possible, please consider donating.
Looking Ahead: Funding, Partnerships and Sustainable Impact
The rest of 2025 is focused on strengthening our financial foundation so we can continue delivering high-impact programmes in schools that lack the resources to do it themselves.
We are deeply grateful for the support we’ve already received from:
· The Catherine Cookson Charitable Trust
· #NationalLottery
· Squires Foundation
· And several valued private donors
We are also in the process of developing an exciting partnership with Accenture, while continuing to maintain strong links with the Centre for Social Justice.
Join Us in Changing Lives
If you are a business owner, leader, philanthropist or someone simply looking to make a meaningful difference—let's connect.There are incredible opportunities to invest in real, measurable social impact, directly improving the lives of students in some of the most disadvantaged communities in the Northeast.
Your support can change a life.
And sometimes, that’s all it takes to make a difference.
Get in Touch
If you’d like to donate, partner, volunteer, or simply connect with us, please reach out—we’d love to hear from you.
