At Group55, we believe that businesses can (and should) play a meaningful role in opening doors for the next generation. That’s why we’re incredibly proud to share that the Dame Robina Shah Foundation (DRSF) has been selected as Group55’s Charity of the Year.
This partnership is about far more than fundraising. It’s about broadening horizons, building confidence and helping young people see opportunities they may never have imagined for themselves.
Why the Dame Robina Shah Foundation?
The Dame Robina Shah Foundation is doing inspiring work through its Futuremakers: Opening Doors programme, which supports young people from communities where access to networks, enrichment and real-world career opportunities is not always equal.
The programme is designed to provide meaningful, real‑world experiences that help young people grow in confidence, develop aspirations and prepare for the world of work. From digital skills and entrepreneurship to mentoring, employer encounters and industry immersion, Futuremakers helps students understand what’s possible, and believe that it’s achievable.
What makes the Foundation especially distinctive is its focus on long‑term development, not just one‑off experiences. Young people build skills, confidence and evidence over time, supported by committed partners and mentors.
What This Partnership Will Look Like
Over the coming year, Group55 will be supporting the Dame Robina Shah Foundation in several ways.
Alongside regular financial contributions, we’re excited to open our doors and give students direct access to the people, environments and opportunities that bring careers to life.
As part of the partnership, we’re looking forward to:
- Welcoming students into Group55 for immersive, behind‑the‑scenes careers experiences
- Showcasing the wide range of roles that exist across manufacturing and the beauty sector, from lab and technical teams to engineering, warehouse operations, marketing, commercial, finance and purchasing
- Supporting a follow‑on product development challenge, where students can take their ideas further and pitch them back in a Dragon’s Den‑style format
- Helping young people build confidence, skills and evidence that contribute towards their DRSF Honours journey
We believe exposure, conversation and real experiences can be transformational, especially when young people can see themselves reflected in the world of work.
The DRSF Honours Framework
A truly special part of the Foundation’s work is its Honours framework, which recognises young people through a structured Bronze, Silver and Gold pathway.
This framework celebrates growth, participation, leadership and achievement, giving young people something tangible to work towards and be proud of. The Foundation’s heraldic badge plays an important role too, acting as a symbol of dignity, aspiration and belonging.
It’s a powerful approach that recognises effort and progress, not just outcomes.
Why This Matters to Group55
This partnership reflects what matters deeply to us at Group55.
As a B Corp certified business, we’re committed to creating positive impact, not only through the products we make, but through the opportunities we help create for others. Supporting social mobility, education and access to opportunity aligns closely with our values and our belief in responsible business.
We’re excited about what lies ahead and proud to play our part in helping the next generation build confidence, unlock potential and step into their futures with belief.