About us

Sam Smith co-founded Genuine Futures alongside Mike Alleyne after returning to Bolton in 2023.

Drawing on over 26 years of experience in the cleaning, exterior cleaning, car valeting, and home services industries, Sam recognised that the environmental concerns being raised by residents aligned with skills and experience he had developed throughout his working life.

However, Clean Futures was never intended to be another cleaning business.

Instead, it became a way of combining community need with social impact, creating opportunities for young people while helping residents take pride in the places they live.

Having experienced care, homelessness, and significant challenges during his own childhood, Sam is passionate about creating opportunities for young people who may feel overlooked or disconnected.

“Clean Futures started by listening. Residents told us what mattered to them, and we simply looked for a way to respond. Every project we deliver is about improving communities while creating opportunities for young people.”

Mike Alleyne is Co-Director of Genuine Futures and plays a key role in supporting the development of Clean Futures.

With extensive experience in mentoring, coaching, safeguarding, and personal development, Mike works closely with young people involved in the initiative, helping them build confidence, resilience, and practical employability skills.

“When young people are trusted and supported, they achieve incredible things. Clean Futures gives young people a chance to learn, contribute, and make a positive difference.”

Cameron joined Genuine Futures through the Boss Your Future programme and has grown into a confident Youth Ambassador.

He now supports community engagement activities, environmental projects, and youth-led social action initiatives through Clean Futures. Cameron is passionate about showing other young people that positive change is possible when people are given opportunities and support.

“Clean Futures shows that young people can make a real difference while learning valuable skills and helping their communities.”

Aaron is a passionate advocate for community action and youth voice.

Through Clean Futures, he helps engage residents, supports environmental projects, and encourages other young people to get involved in improving their neighbourhoods. Aaron believes young people should play an active role in shaping the future of their communities.

“Young people care about where they live. Clean Futures gives us the chance to get involved and make a positive impact.”

Luis is one of the leading youth voices within Genuine Futures and plays a vital role in shaping Clean Futures.

As Youth Voice Champion, he helps ensure young people’s opinions and ideas influence the direction of projects and campaigns. Through community engagement, content creation, and public speaking, Luis demonstrates the positive contribution young people can make when given the opportunity.

“Young people are often part of the solution. Clean Futures gives us the chance to be heard and make a difference.”

Jason joined Genuine Futures through the Boss Your Future programme after facing challenges progressing into further education. Despite applying to four colleges, he was unsuccessful each time.

Rather than giving up, Jason continued developing his skills and confidence through Genuine Futures and Clean Futures. He now supports community improvement projects, environmental initiatives, and youth-led social action activities, gaining valuable hands-on experience along the way.

“I applied to four colleges and got turned down every time. Clean Futures gave me the chance to keep learning, gain experience, and move forward.”

Paula is one of the creative voices behind Genuine Futures and Clean Futures. Through her artwork and lived experience, she helps young people share their stories, build confidence, and inspire others.

Her powerful artwork, including “I Am Not My Past,” reflects themes of resilience, hope, and transformation. Paula plays a key role in creative projects, campaigns, and the Urban Futures Collective.

“Art gave me a way to tell my story. If my work helps one young person believe in themselves, it’s worth it.” 🎨✨

Ashley has become one of the most recognisable faces of Clean Futures. Passionate about environmental improvement and community pride, he supports clean-up projects, resident engagement activities, and environmental action days.

His enthusiasm and commitment help bring local people together around a shared goal of creating cleaner, safer communities.

“Every project makes a visible difference. You’re not just cleaning an area; you’re helping create pride in communities and opportunities for young people.”

Charlene is a valued volunteer with Clean Futures who is passionate about supporting young people and strengthening local communities. She plays an important role behind the scenes, helping with community events, environmental projects, and ensuring young people feel welcomed, supported, and encouraged.

Her caring nature, positive attitude, and commitment to helping others make her an important part of the Clean Futures team.

“I believe everyone deserves the opportunity to grow, be supported, and feel part of something positive. It’s wonderful to see young people gaining confidence while making a difference in their communities.” 💚