A VOLUNTEER who works to empower young people and improve opportunities for them says gaining their trust is the best part of his job.

Marc Lorenzi joined Fulham charity Britafrique in September last year as an education and community engagement officer, working with young people aged 12 to 24, primarily from African and Caribbean backgrounds.

The 40-year-old from Leytonstone mentors them and leads workshops on issues affecting them, including discrimination, crime, police and employment, trying to break down barriers and pass on transferable skills.

Mr Lorenzi said: “The best part of working with young people is the moment when each young person gives you an indication that they trust you; connecting with and developing effective relationships with them.

“A lot of these kids feel disadvantaged. To gain their trust is significant.”

Marc was nominated in the charity worker category by Michelle Kintoye, who founded Britafrique – based in Bishop Creighton House, Lillie Road – in 2008.

She said: “He is absolutely dedicated to the young people. He’s not looking for something in return, he wanted to make a difference.”

Britafrique also provides a supplementary evening school to provide extra tuition for children from deprived backgrounds trying to reach university.

And Marc works closely with its young members to apply for grants to continue the charity’s work.