NewsLucas Leiva visits LFC Foundation's Creative Works programme in New York

Lucas visited the Maysles Documentary Center while in the United States for New York Climate Week, supporting Liverpool FC's sustainability work through The Red Way. He spent time with participants on the open access film programme, which supports young people aged 18-25 to learn about the process of producing, developing and creating short films as part of a wider employability offer.

During the session, he heard directly from the young people about the projects they are developing, shared reflections from his own life and career, and joined in with creative activities, including developing film ideas, shaping scripts and acting out a trailer for one of the concepts generated together.

The visit gave participants the chance to discuss their ambitions with Lucas, ask questions about resilience and teamwork, and reflect on how the skills they are building through the programme can support their next steps in education, employment and the creative industries.

Lucas said: "It was a privilege to visit the Creative Works programme in New York and spend time with the young people there. Hearing about their ideas, seeing their creativity and learning more about their ambitions was really inspiring. Programmes like this can make a big difference by giving young people the confidence and the opportunity to follow their dreams."

Creative Works uses the power of Liverpool FC and storytelling to help young people develop practical creative skills alongside confidence, communication, collaboration and problem-solving. The programme introduces participants to different roles across the creative sector, supporting them to explore possible career routes and build experience in a professional setting.

Matt Parish, chief executive of LFC Foundation, said: "Our international work is an important part of LFC Foundation’s mission to tackle social inequalities for young people and communities around the world. Creative Works is a brilliant example of how we can use the power of Liverpool FC to inspire and support young people beyond Merseyside, and it was fantastic to see Lucas there engaging with the participants and championing their ambitions."

Supported by Kodansha, LFC Foundation’s Creative Works programme helps young people across New York City and Northern New Jersey access creative opportunities that may otherwise feel out of reach. Through hands-on workshops and mentoring, participants are encouraged to tell their own stories, develop their ideas and gain skills that can support their futures.

Since launching in New York in 2024, Creative Works has continued LFC Foundation’s commitment to tackling social inequalities for communities through sport, education and community programmes. The Foundation continues to grow its international work to help more young people build confidence, develop new skills and realise their potential.