Amber Wright Appointed CEO of Launch It to Champion Youth Entrepreneurship

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Amber Wright as Launch It's new Chief Executive Officer.

Amber's journey is deeply connected to Launch It's mission and impact. Having joined the organisation in 2008 as an Enterprise Manager in Tottenham, she has spent nearly two decades helping young people start businesses, develop entrepreneurial skills and build independent futures through self-employment and enterprise.

Over the past 18 years, Amber has played a pivotal role in Launch It's growth, from delivering frontline support to young entrepreneurs to leading fundraising, developing new enterprise centres and helping shape the charity's long-term strategy. Most recently, as Development Director, she secured vital funding, built strategic partnerships and expanded opportunities for young people across the UK.

Before joining Launch It, Amber ran her own catering business and later worked with The King's Trust, where she developed a passion for empowering young people through entrepreneurship, self-employment and enterprise.

Reflecting on her appointment, Amber said: "After 18 years with this organisation, it feels incredibly special and very personal, to take on this role. I've had the privilege of seeing first-hand how enterprise can transform lives and create opportunities for young people who may otherwise be excluded from them."

Tackling Youth Unemployment Through Enterprise

Amber takes on the role at a critical time. More than one million young people in the UK are currently not in education, employment or training, while social mobility remains a significant challenge for many communities.

"Self-employment flips the script. Instead of waiting for an opportunity, you create it. A lot of young people struggle to get hired because they don't have experience, but starting something yourself is experience. Whether it's freelancing, selling online or launching a business, you're building skills, confidence and resilience that can help you throughout your career," she said.

Through Launch It's network of enterprise centres in London, Scotland, Stoke-on-Trent and Kent, mentoring programmes and business support services, thousands of young people have gained the confidence, skills and practical support needed to turn ideas into sustainable businesses.

Unlocking Young People's Potential Through Entrepreneurship

For Amber, Launch It's impact extends far beyond business creation. "We don't just support businesses, we unlock potential. We provide young people the space, confidence, skills, funding and networks to create opportunities for themselves, particularly in communities where those opportunities can be hardest to access."

Throughout her career with Launch It, Amber has worked alongside young founders who have transformed their lives through entrepreneurship. "I've seen first-hand the difference this makes. I've worked with incredible young people who, with the right support, have built successful businesses, created jobs and given back to their communities. That belief in young people and what they're capable of is what has kept me here for nearly two decades."

The Future of Launch It

As CEO, Amber will focus on expanding Launch It's reach, strengthening partnerships and increasing access to enterprise support for young people across the UK.

"I want Launch It to play an even bigger role in tackling the youth opportunity gap, reaching new communities and demonstrating that entrepreneurship can be a powerful tool for social mobility, economic inclusion and long-term opportunity."

With almost 20 years of experience within the organisation and a deep understanding of the challenges facing young people today, Amber is uniquely positioned to lead Launch It as it continues its mission to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs and create lasting social impact across the UK.

Find out more about our work & impact at www.launchit.org.uk