Online Youth Network
Ambitious about Autism has a rapidly growing online Ambitious Youth Network. Through the network, autistic young people between the ages of 13-25 can share experiences, connect with others, have their say on Ambitious about Autism’s projects and access a range of opportunities to advocate and improve services for autistic young people.
The Ambitious Youth Network is run and managed by the Participation team.
Live feed
The live feed is where members can view information that we post daily from within Ambitious about Autism and the autism and disability community. Our weekly posting schedule is as follows:
Monday: What’s on this week
Tuesday: Alternative opportunities
Thursday: Autism and disability news
Friday: Employ Autism opportunities
Webinars
Each month we post a recorded webinar. The webinars are led by experts and specialists in their fields. The topics covered range from mental health, life skills, employment, education, finance and social issues.
Apply for opportunities
Youth Network opportunities are voluntary and aim to educate the public about autism and making life better for autistic young people.
Organisations we have worked alongside in the past include The Postal Museum, Compare the Market, Marsh McLennan, NHS England and lots more.
Our opportunities are a great way to expand your knowledge and confidence and gain valuable experience.
Join a group (16+)
Groups involve members of our Ambitious Youth Network, who provide expertise and advice to different organisations. Each group requires its members to participate in sessions throughout the year. Some groups involve opportunities that are paid. Groups include:
Autism Education Trust: Young Experts panel
Ambitious Youth Network Youth Advisors
Autistic and OK Youth Advisors
Testimonials
We asked members of the Ambitious Youth Network what they enjoyed most about being part of the network. Below are some quotes with what young people shared with us.
I really enjoy being able to be involved in a range of different opportunities that I want to be part of. I like that I can make a difference, learn more about other autistic young people and share my experiences as an autistic young person.
The thing I love most about the Youth Network is meeting such incredible people. Everyone has such an interesting and inspiring story! Everyone I have met has been kind, understanding, and has their own amazing talents and hobbies that make them THEM.
Being part of the Ambitious Youth Network has had a very positive impact on my life because it has given me a strong sense of belonging, enjoyment, and I don't feel as isolated or lonely anymore. It has given me the opportunity to share my passion about autism with others and to come across other young people with similar views and experiences to me. Before I joined the Ambitious Youth Network I struggled to take part in group activities and was highly anxious to do so, now I feel much more confident and self-assured in a range of different situations.
Being part of Ambitious has truly helped me grow as a person. I've finally begun to understand my autism, and that has made me understand who I am, and develop my identity. I have found some friends too, and I feel I know what my interests are. I've come to accept my weaknesses, and maybe realise some strengths, and overall I'm much more confident and can actually see a future for myself! I feel like I have real dreams and goals for my life, and I'm excited to hopefully achieve them!
Subscribe to our newsletter to receive regular email updates and news from the participation team.