A Message from Our New CEO: Looking Ahead with Gratitude and Excitement

Ali Jaffer, CEO Yes Futures

Hello everyone,

I’m writing to you with a deep sense of gratitude, responsibility and optimism as I step into the role of CEO at Yes Futures.

This organisation has always meant a great deal to me — I helped to build it at its inception and served as a trustee for nearly five years. Returning now, in this new capacity, feels both humbling and energising.

There’s no denying that 2024 has been one of the most challenging years in our history. Like many small charities, we’ve faced some tough realities and had to make difficult decisions including saying goodbye to brilliant colleagues, many of whom built strong, lasting relationships with our volunteers and schools, and who brought real dedication to our work every day.

One of those colleagues is also a dear friend and the person who laid the very foundations of Yes Futures: our founding CEO, Sarah Sewell. Sarah’s vision and passion helped build Yes Futures from the ground up. She’s been a much loved leader and a driving force behind so much of what we’ve achieved. I want to thank her, sincerely, for everything she gave and for the legacy she leaves behind.

Sarah would like to share a farewell message:

Sarah Sewell, Outgoing Chief Executive

“As we enter the last term of the academic year, it’s time for a final farewell from me. This year has been one of big changes for Yes Futures, as the charity began a new strategic direction. I’m delighted to have handed over to Ali who will now lead the charity as Chief Executive.”

“The power of our programmes to transform the self-belief of students will continue under passionate leadership. The new, talented team will also explore new innovations, ensuring our incredible impact continues to make a difference, in a world where it's needed more than ever.”

“Whilst I have now stepped away, I will (of course!) be a life-long fan of Yes Futures, and look forward to cheering the charity on from afar. I am so grateful for the journey I have had and for all of YOU – our community of coaches, supporters, volunteers, partners, funders and advisors, who have shared the journey to this point.”

“My final word must go, most importantly, to the fabulous former team members who leave behind a lasting legacy. You all made a profound difference to many young people through your work – thank you all.”

I want to personally thank Sarah for everything she gave — not just to the charity, but to every young person, volunteer, school, and supporter who’s been part of the Yes Futures story. She leaves behind something truly worth continuing, and we will do our utmost to honour that.

Looking forward, I’m thrilled to introduce the new team who will be shaping our next chapter: Nafisah, Fiona, Harry and Tracy — a group full of heart, expertise, and a shared commitment to empowering young people. Together, we’re focused on strengthening our impact and building deeper connections with the people and communities who make our work possible.

L-R Row 1: Nafisah Graham-Brown and Fiona Lacey; Row 2: Harry Paige and Tracy Newbury-Abegg

Click for more information on our Team

Ultimately your belief in building young people’s self-belief is the reason we’re still here. The time you give, the stories you share, the encouragement you offer: these are the lifeblood of our mission. The last few months have been tough, but you will be hearing more from us as we have now made the transition to our new organisational structure.

In the immediate future, we’re preparing for the Big Give campaign this month, which is a crucial opportunity to raise funds we urgently need through a matched funding campaign. Every donation made during that time will be doubled, helping us continue to support the children and schools who count on us.

Thank you for being part of this journey. It means more than you know. I’m hopeful about where we’re heading — and incredibly proud to walk this path with all of you.

With warmest wishes, 

Ali Jaffer 

CEO, Yes Futures