This past Saturday, mentors, mentees and alumni came together to take part in our annual sports day, Urban Synergy Games 2026. The event was jam packed with fun activities, giving attendees the opportunity to socialise, eat good food and, most importantly, network with like minded people.
Leila Thomas, Chief Executive of Urban Synergy, kicked off proceedings with a heartfelt speech before the games got underway. She reflected on how far Urban Synergy has come since 2007, highlighting the fact that the charity is fast approaching its 20th anniversary.
Reflecting on the day, Leila said: "Every time I see mentors and mentees together outside of a formal setting, laughing, competing, cheering each other on, I'm reminded why we do this work. I couldn't have imagined that what started out as a pipe dream more than 20 years ago would now be approaching its 20th anniversary. Seeing everyone who has been impacted by the charity in one place is an indescribable feeling, and it has got me even more excited for what's ahead. I know that our 20th anniversary is going to be bigger and better than anything we've done before."
Since 2007, the charity has supported 50,000 young people to gain essential skills needed to thrive within the world of work. From mentors to job opportunities, Urban Synergy is helping to bridge the gap by tapping into the talent pool in some of the most underserved communities in London and nationwide. Synergy Games was a rare opportunity for all those connected to the charity to come together and collectively reflect on their respective journeys.
Leila also thanked the mentors who volunteered their time throughout the year, and reminded everyone at the event that days like this are about more than sport. They are about building the relationships and confidence that carry young people into careers.
What the young people thought about Synergy Games 2026
With the speeches done, the real competition began. Attendees were split into teams for a series of relay races, obstacle challenges and mini tournaments across the arena. Between events, mentees and mentors swapped stories over food, alumni caught up with the mentors who supported them years ago, and new connections formed between young people who might not otherwise have crossed paths.
Describing the impact of Urban Synergy one young person said: “Urban Synergy has been fantastic. I’m new to the charity and it’s inspirational to see how they’re supporting young people. A lot of the youth need this sort of support”
Read more about the work of Urban Synergy, including our mentoring programmes, work experience placements and upcoming 20th anniversary celebrations.
