THE future of Croydon is not as bad as some would have you believe, says one town resident.
Ashley Wyllie, 25, says he is sick of the bad press youngsters get and he is determined to change that. He has set up a website, futureofcroydon.com, to promote "the positive side of Croydon," inspire people and match them with opportunities.
Mr Wyllie, from Thornton Heath, said: "Especially since the riots there has been a lot of negative press. You cannot really find any good news about young people in Croydon, but I know a lot of young people who are doing great stuff."
Mr Wyllie held a launch for the project at Matthews Yard cafe earlier this month, featuring guest speaker Gavin Barwell MP. He also hopes to start up a print magazine.
Mr Wyllie says the website will feature advice and experiences from CEOs to employees and new apprentices. He is also working with businesses to try to provide apprenticeships or longer-term placements.
He added: "This is an opportunity to get your voice heard and make sure that as the future of Croydon, we keep in touch with developing Croydon.
"Throughout the year we will be hosting pop-up events throughout Croydon incorporating fashion, food, music, culture and creative arts.
"We aim to keep the community connected, make accessible opportunities in Croydon, and spread the good news."
At present his website features video interviews with entrepreneurs, musicians and sportsmen discussing how they got started.
Among the contributors is Arnold Sarfo-Kantanka, the founder of MeFiri Ghana clothing company and director of the WAM Campaign for children in Ghana.
He tells viewers: "My advice for young people is don't be afraid to try. Yes you want to be a boss, but work for a boss.
"How can you be a boss if you don't know what a boss does? That doesn't make sense."
He adds: "This is from Richard Branson: He says entrepreneurship is just about finding a solution to a problem. It is not about being the next Apple.
"It is about finding a solution to a problem and using wisdom. Ask yourself the question; why you want to do what you want to do?"
Mr Wyllie says he is looking for writers, editors, artists and other contributors to take part in his movement.
He added: "I want people to be able to look at it and be proud of what young people in the area are doing."
Visit thefutureofcroydon.com for more information.
