Empathy Week and Futures for All

During 9-13^th March 2026, Futures For All partnered with Empathy Week to offer 11-19-year-olds at state secondary schools insights into building empathy as a skill, which will help them in the world of work.  

Empathy Week is an annual festival of films, storytelling and events that is completely free for schools – and develops the skill of empathy in students aged 5-18. Empathy is the one human skill that powers all others, including leadership, creativity and resilience. Human skills are crucial to prepare young people to navigate change and be ready for a 21^st century world of work – one that is rapidly being reshaped by technology and AI. 

This year’s festival theme, ‘Your Culture, My Culture, Our Culture’, invited students to explore what culture truly is: the shared stories, values, languages, traditions, creative expressions and everyday practices that shape how people live. Resources and activities encouraged young people to explore their own identity and encounter diverse experiences, helping nurture students’ curiosity and compassion for others.    

Our Partnership with Empathy Week 

As part of Empathy Week’s programme of events, several inspirational speakers from the Speakers for Schools network gave talks to schools across the UK:  

• Pratik Dattani, MD, Economic Policy Group 

• Lynne Berry CBE, Academic, Government Regulator and Charity Chair 

• CeCe Sammy-Lightfoot, Vocal Coach & TV Presenter 

• Jean Campbell, British Fashion Model 

• Sarah Baynes, CEO, The Creative Garden 

• Professor Martin Elliott, Children's Heart Surgeon and Provost, Gresham College 

• Victoria Greenwood, Ex-Criminologist & Solicitor & Trustee, Longford Trust 

Speakers shared their career journey and insights 1,290 students– and highlighted the value and impact of empathy for careers across industries. 

Cece Sammy Lightfoot

Professor Martin Elliott at Ursuline Academy Ilford

School Feedback

“[The speaker] shared her insights into career pathways… [and] spoke about the importance of empathy for others but also yourself in this changing world. Students had the opportunity to ask questions in the Q&A, focusing on aspects such as how empathy plays a role in work and daily life, the importance of being flexible when thinking about your future and habits that can help them to stay focused and motivated.”

Educator 

“I think the talk was very inspirational, not just for me but others in the room as well, everyone in the room was joyful/excited, I'd say it boosted my confidence a lot.”

Student

“I like how the speaker gave us information about the career and how they help people.”

Student

“It gave me an insight of a real heart surgeon’s experience… and I like how he sounded like he genuinely loved his job, this really inspired me.”

Student

“I feel inspired to learn about the different struggles that people have and how they learned to overcome them.”

Student 

“The speaker mentioned [that]… as long as you put the effort in then you can achieve anything.”

Student

Lasting Impact 

At Futures For All, we invest in transformational experiences that empower the next generation and open doors – and with empathy as a skill, students are equipped to shape and thrive in inclusive and diverse workforces, and prepared for future success.

Find out more about Empathy Week here.

Discover career inspiration with our Talks Library , which is also available as a resource of insights into different sectors.