Blog

Find Your Future Fest – a careers fair with a difference

25 May 2026

On Wednesday 20th May the Restart Scheme team in Manchester held Find Your Future Fest, an inspiring, high- energy event designed specifically for 18-25-year-olds. The goal? To move them closer to work. 

A strong mix of opportunities 

A wide range of training providers, employability support organisations and employers were onsite, giving attendees access to real, practical next steps.  

Young people had the chance to: 

• speak directly with employers about current vacancies 
• learn about the career pathways and training routes available  
• understand what employers are really looking for in applications  
• connect with organisations offering tailored employability support 

With many young people applying for jobs and not getting past the first stage, a face-to-face conversation with an employer really helped them understand how they could tailor their applications for the work that they are looking for.  

Designed with young people in mind 

Everything about Find Your Future Fest was built around creating a youth friendly environment. Music from our resident DJ kept the atmosphere upbeat throughout the day, add in interactive activities, and it was easy for attendees to get involved. 

Careers fairs can often feel pressured, held in large rooms, they can feel overwhelming. Find Your Future Fest’s approach, removed this feeling and it was quickly possible to see the positive impact this had.   

A well-attended and engaging day 

The event saw a strong turnout, with a steady flow of young people attending throughout the day. The mix of energy, accessibility and opportunity meant people stayed engaged, taking time to visit multiple stands, join activities and consider careers they may not have in the past. 

Employers and providers also shared positive feedback, highlighting the value of meeting young people in an environment that inspired easy and positive conversations to take place. 

Malaika, 22, told us: “I found it very enlightening, because there were lots of different opportunities available from different career backgrounds I didn't think of before. Like the Northwest Ambulance Service and then there was also Kings Trust as well. There was also lots of volunteering opportunities which was helpful.” 

“The day in general, I really liked it. The vibe was really good. Like the music, the face paint, the glitter, all of that was really great. It was very comfortable compared to a regular job fair. It was just more down to earth, it felt natural, more comfortable compared to going to something a bit more corporate.” she continued.  

Supporting the journey into work 

At its core, the event was about more than just job opportunities. It was about helping young people build confidence, understand their options and take practical steps towards employment. 

By bringing together employers, training providers and support organisations in one place, Find Your Future Fest created a space where young people could: 

• see clear pathways into work 
• access the right support at the right time 
• feel motivated about their future 

Looking ahead 

Find Your Future Fest showed the impact of creating opportunities that are designed with young people in mind. By combining energy, inspiration and real-world connections, we can help bridge the gap between ambition and employment. 

We look forward to building on this success and continuing to support young people as they take their next steps. Learn more about our employment services.