Jeorgina Soares, Manager/Director of JDS Striving for Excellence

What does your charity do?

JDS Striving for Excellence CIC is a grassroots organisation supporting young people and families across Barking & Dagenham. We create safe, inclusive and dedicated spaces where young people feel comfortable to express themselves, build relationships, and develop the skills they need to transition into adulthood. 

Our work includes youth hubs, mentoring, wellbeing programmes, creative workshops and entrepreneurship support. We focus on building confidence, social skills, emotional wellbeing and practical life skills, ensuring young people feel prepared for their future. 

At JDS, we are not just running activities, we are creating spaces where young people feel seen, heard and valued.

What are the challenges your service users face, and how does your organisation help users overcome them?

Many of the young people we support face challenges such as low confidence, social isolation, lack of safe spaces and limited access to opportunities. There is also a growing need for support in helping young people navigate their transition into adulthood.

 JDS addresses these challenges by providing safe, consistent environments where young people can talk openly, connect with others and build essential life skills through engaging and structured activities. A powerful example of our impact was our Youth Wellness & Pampering Event with ELBA on 17 February 2026, held at John Smith House: 

Over 169 young people attended Participants engaged in rotational activities including wellbeing, self-care, creative expression and safe discussions. The event focused on supporting young people’s confidence, identity and transition into adulthood. It created a vibrant and safe environment where young people felt relaxed, valued and connected. Through our partnership with ELBA, we were able to take this impact even further. ELBA connected us with corporate partners who donated essential items. These items supported over 169 young people, providing practical resources alongside the experience. This ensured that young people left not only inspired, but also supported in their daily lives This collaboration highlights the importance of partnerships in creating real community impact. ELBA has played a key role in helping us bridge the gap between grassroots needs and corporate support, allowing us to expand our reach and deliver meaningful change.

Do you have an inspirational story/moment about your work that you would like to share?

One of the most powerful parts of our work is witnessing transformation in young people. We supported a young person who initially struggled with confidence and found it difficult to engage in group settings. Through consistent support, safe discussions and encouragement, they gradually began to open up, share their ideas and participate in activities. Over time, that same young person grew in confidence and began exploring future opportunities, including developing their own ideas and goals. 

This journey is a reminder that when young people are given the right space and support, they can grow, believe in themselves and take positive steps forward.

What kind of support are you in need of right now and how might volunteering fit into that?

As our work continues to grow, we are looking to expand our reach and support more young people across the borough. We are currently seeking: 

Corporate partnerships to support programmes and community events. Also, donations of essential items for our JDS Beyond Basics initiative. Volunteers are essential to our work. We welcome individuals and organisations who are passionate about making a difference in young people’s lives.