Mizizi boys mentorship cic

Blades Down, Bright Futures



Blades Down, Bright Futures was delivered by Mizizi Boys Mentorship CIC at Moat House Leisure & Neighbourhood Centre in Coventry, with support from the Citizen Local Fund.

This 12-week initiative, running from June to September 2025, was designed to support boys aged 11–17 living in Citizen communities across Coventry. The programme aimed to address key challenges such as knife crime, peer pressure, low confidence, and disengagement from school.

Each week, participants took part in structured football sessions to build teamwork and healthy friendships, alongside workshops focused on identity, emotional wellbeing, and conflict resolution. Every boy was paired with a mentor, offering consistent one-to-one support and guidance. Families were also invited to open days and celebration events, helping to strengthen community connections.

This project has been a vital intervention for the local community, offering young people a safe and supportive environment to grow and thrive. By providing consistent role models, practical tools, and positive activities, Blades Down, Bright Futures has helped steer boys away from harmful influences and towards brighter futures. It has also strengthened relationships between families, mentors, and community leaders — creating a lasting network of support that will continue to benefit Citizen neighbourhoods long after the programme ends.

Project Impact

  • ⚽ Engagement: Over 35 boys regularly attended, most from Citizen Housing neighbourhoods.
  • 💪 Confidence & Skills: Participants reported improved self-esteem, emotional regulation, and decision-making.
  • 🏡 Community Safety: Parents noticed more positive behaviour at home and reduced involvement in risky peer groups.
  • 🤝 Mentorship: Six local volunteers were trained and supported, building long-term capacity for youth guidance.
  • 🧩 Relationships: The project fostered trust between families, mentors, and community leaders, creating a wider support network.

Looking Ahead

Blades Down, Bright Futures has laid the groundwork for lasting change. With Citizen’s support, this successful pilot has not only created safer streets and brighter futures — it’s also sparked the development of long-term mentorship hubs that will continue to benefit Citizen customers and communities.