Fazeley Studios opens doors to the music industry.
On Saturday, 23rd August, over 150 young people from local youth organisations were treated to a unique, one-day 'Into the Industry' experience at Fazeley Studios. This exclusive event was a beacon of inspiration for creatives aspiring to break into the music industry.
Showcase Beyond the Ball cross-border football tournament lights up Drogheda United's United Park Stadium
On Tuesday, 19th August, 70 young people involved in our 'Beyond the Ball' programme with the International Fund for Ireland gathered for an unforgettable football tournament and accredited training.
Exclusive Sports Leadership Programme Set for Delivery in Tameside
Starting this August, a group of aspiring community leaders will be embarking on a six-week programme in Tameside, Manchester, to learn how to design, coach, and deliver football sessions.
Youth Exchange programme boosts East/West relations
On Monday, 21st July 2025, participants from the Beyond the Ball Community Programme embarked on a three-day adventure in London—a rare and unique overseas opportunity for community connection, skills development and cultural enrichment.
Boots off, for leadership training at Drogheda United FC
Drogheda United FC hosted a cross-border training programme, bringing together young people from Drogheda and Belfast to develop leadership skills.
Job Vacancies: 5 new roles for exciting new cross-border PEACE Academy programme in Belfast and Sligo
We're hiring! The Rio Ferdinand Foundation are recruiting to 5 new roles for an exciting new cross-border PEACE Academy programme in Belfast and Sligo, funded by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
Beyond the Ball Building Young Leaders in Sligo
The Beyond the Ball community programme, funded by the International Fund for Ireland, is continuing to build the leaders of tomorrow with a major training programme hosted by Sligo Rovers FC.
No mountain too high; Rio Ferdinand Foundation hosts youth training in Donegal
A newly formed Youth Advisory Group, comprising 19 young leaders from diverse regions including Belfast, Derry, Sligo, Enniskillen, Omagh, and Louth, gathered on Wednesday, 2nd July, at the X Community Centre in Donegal.
Beyond the Ball expands into County Louth
The Beyond the Ball community programme, funded by the International Fund for Ireland, embarks on its final phase with a new partnership in County Louth.
Transfer window of opportunity: Parents spend more time keeping up with their football club’s future than their own child’s
With football’s summer transfer window opening on Monday, new research has highlighted that parentsi are glued to the latest moves – but not the ones shaping their teens’ futures. Football mad parents spend nearly five hours more a month reading, watching or talking about the sport than they do reading about or speaking with their teenager about their future education and career options.ii
Success for Cross-Border, Cross Community tournament
On Sunday, 27th April, a heartwarming sight unfolded in Omagh as 125 young people, aged 14-18, came together for a cross-border, cross-community football tournament at Youth Sport in Omagh.
Rio Ferdinand Foundation announce partnership with Connolly’s Volkswagen Commercials
The Rio Ferdinand Foundation is delighted to announce a partnership with Connolly’s Volkswagen Commercials, which has become our official van supplier.
Cross-border mission receives £1.2m boost.
The PEACEPLUS funds will significantly amplify the Foundation's cross-border partnership work and mission to connect communities and support peace and reconciliation.
Foundation supports Green Football’s Great Save
“My first pair of football boots were second-hand and too big, but I wouldn’t have been able to start playing football when I did without them. More needs to be done to make kit accessible for young people.” -Rio Ferdinand
Statom Charity Ball raises a staggering £227,500
A star-studded ball in November 2024, adorned with celebrities, raised a staggering £227,500 to drive social mobility and create employability opportunities for young people.
Lambeth resident wins prestigious community award
The Guinness Partnership, one of England’s largest housing associations, and Rio Ferdinand Foundation partner celebrated the success of one of its resident’s Kian Teixeria, at the recent G15 inaugural Community Impact Awards 2025.
Aspiring young footballers inspired by Science and Technology at ‘Soccer Science’ event
Aspiring young footballers gathered at Avoniel Leisure Centre on Friday 14th February for a groundbreaking event that fused football, science and technology as part of this year’s NI Science Festival.
Job Vacancy: Finance & Admin Officer
The Finance & Admin Officer will support the Rio Ferdinand Foundation’s SMT and regional teams with key areas of responsibility around financial administration, supporting internal and external communications and planning, travel arrangements and general administration tasks.
CEO Gary Stannett shares his highlights of a Year of Opportunity
As we approach the end of 2024, it's an opportune moment to reflect on and express thanks for what has been a busy and successful year of growth for the Rio Ferdinand Foundation.
Breaking Barriers
In partnership with Choice Housing, North-West Youth Services and the African Caribbean Network, the Rio Ferdinand Foundation is delighted to announce a Christmas Celebration on Saturday, December 14, 2024. The festive community event is part of a partnership commitment to empowering communities through diverse and inclusive programmes.