I’m Kevin Osei, Founder and CEO of Bridging Barriers, a social mobility charity dedicated to empowering underrepresented young people. Growing up, I saw friends and peers struggling due to a lack of mentorship and career support—issues I also faced. With unemployment high among graduates in my community, I was fortunate to have a mentor who helped me secure an internship, changing my trajectory. I founded Bridging Barriers in 2020 to ensure young people, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, receive the support they need to succeed.
Despite funding constraints, we’ve built a dedicated team. Alongside our part-time Business Development Coordinator, five incredible volunteers bring expertise in Marketing, Project Management, Fundraising, Product Management, and Partnerships. Their passion fuels our mission to help young people thrive.
Our flagship program, Turning Point, addresses the challenges of limited guidance and representation in the workforce. This high-demand program supports 500 young people annually—250 participants each in October and February. Through mentorship, virtual masterclasses, and networking events, participants gain the confidence and skills to navigate their careers.
Yet, the demand far exceeds our current capacity. Annually, we receive 1,500-2,000 applications but can only support 500. Without additional funding, we may need to downscale to 200 participants per year, leaving 300 talented young people without vital support.
Our vision is to sustain and expand our impact, equipping more young people with tools for success. With your support, we aim to hire a dedicated Project Manager, ensuring Turning Point continues at its current capacity and grows to meet rising demand. Together, we can level the playing field, moulding the diverse workforce of tomorrow. Your investment will change lives, empowering young people to unlock their potential and achieve their dreams.