What happens when young people have a say in where funding goes? Our Young Grant Makers Report 2025 shares our experiences, insights and learnings in shaping a more inclusive approach to funding in Islington.
2025 marked the seventh year of the Young Grant Makers (YGM) programme, working with a group of young people aged 16-25, facilitated by two former Young Grant Makers, Freya and Kezia.
The YGM programme is part of Islington Giving’s developing work to include more residents in making decisions about how our funds are used in the borough. We know that local people have extensive experience of using local services, they know where there are gaps in provision, and what kind of projects can meet the needs of their peers. Over the years, Young Grant Makers have taught us so much about the needs of younger people in the borough, the work we fund and how we can go about it in a more inclusive way. This year’s cohort were no different.
“Thank you for making our voices heard!” – Young Grant Maker 2025
Based on our YGM programme, Islington Giving has to date, also run two decision making panels for parents, two for older people in the borough, two involving residents aged 18 – 80+ and two for unpaid carers.
This report describes the 2025-26 project, reflecting the experiences of the two former Young Grant Makers, Freya Johnson and Kezia Adewale, who led and facilitated the programme this year.
With thanks to Esmée Fairbairn Foundation and Linklaters for funding the programme, and to our Islington Giving Coalition Partners for making it possible.
