Socially Mobile launches ‘25 for 2025’ fundraising drive

Socially Mobile, the not-for-profit PR school aimed at changing the leadership demographic of the industry, has launched a 25 for 2025 fundraising scheme.

Industry leaders are being asked to sponsor a place or enrol a member of their team on the online training programme for just £750 per person to help the Community Interest Company remain sustainable over the next 18-24 months. 

The fast-paced ten-week online executive education course offers an unrivalled immersive and collaborative learning experience designed to move PR practitioners from a tactical to a strategic role.

Over 100 students have already graduated with a certificate in leadership communication. Reported outcomes include improved industry-specific knowledge and an increased ability to adapt to market needs, as well as enhanced skills in communication, strategic thinking, problem solving and leadership.

Fully funded places are available to those from lower socio-economic backgrounds, as well as under-represented and under-served groups including Black and ethnic minority practitioners, the LGBTQ+ community, women returners and those with disabilities.

Despite widespread support, including the backing of a large volunteer community, fundraising for the Community Interest Company has become increasingly difficult against the economic downturn.

Director Sarah Waddington CBE said:

“We were fortunate to have generous founding sponsors on our launch and subsequent other support helped generate enough income for the first three years.

“However, with the volatility of the economy, attracting larger donations has become increasingly tricky. This is why we are launching 25 for 2025 – a bid for the PR industry to help make us viable by splitting the fundraising need into smaller chunks.

“We are asking our PR community to sponsor a place for someone deserving for just £750 – or to place a member of the team on the programme. This way, you’re not just developing your own talent, you’re making a difference to someone else’s life chances too.”

Stephen Waddington, Socially Mobile co-founder, added:

“Supporting us enables us to scale our efforts, become sustainable for the future, and reduce the double disadvantages that many face. Just 25 places can help Socially Mobile help others for another two years.

“If you’re an employer focused on business growth through talent development and diversity or committed to making a positive impact within the industry as part of ESG efforts, please work with us.”

Socially Mobile is accredited by The Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management, a confederation of the world's major public relations and communication management associations, organisations, and institutions, representing over 360,000 practitioners, academics, and students in 126 countries worldwide.

Supporter badges are available to those sponsoring fully funded places for others or using Socially Mobile for their own team’s professional development needs.

For more information, or to sponsor a place, please email programme manager Beth Thomas at beth.thomas@sociallymobile.org.uk.