Rameesah Ahmed

What inspired you to join OnSide? 

After moving cities, I was genuinely gutted to leave my previous role in youth voice and influence. Supporting and amplifying young people’s voices has been a huge part of my life since I was 14, so it’s always been more than just a job to me — it’s a passion and a commitment. 

When I came across OnSide, I was over the moon. Seeing an organisation so dedicated to creating life-changing opportunities for young people and doing so at such scale felt incredibly inspiring. The magnitude of what Youth Zones offer and the consistent focus on empowerment, access and inclusion, really resonated with me – so much of what was at offer reminded me of the things I wished I had when I was a kid. 

And so, joining OnSide felt like a natural next step. The organisation’s values align so closely with my own passions, morals and drive to champion young people that it truly felt like a no-brainer. 

What was your first impression of the team/OnSide? 

During my interview at Onside, one of my main goals was to show up as my authentic self – something especially important to me as someone living with neurodiversity and a chronic illness. The team immediately made that feel easy. They were genuinely warm, personable and welcoming. I left the room feeling energised and excited at the prospect of joining the organisation. 

Since then, every interaction I’ve had with OnSide has reinforced that first impression. Everyone has been incredibly friendly and supportive and there’s a real consistency in the culture and messaging. Hearing that OnSide is a brilliant place to work, where no two days are the same and work–life balance is genuinely valued, was really reassuring – I can honestly say my experience so far has reflected exactly that. 

What’s been a memorable moment you’ve had working with the team?  

A memorable moment for me has come through session observations, which are a key part of my role. They allow me to support youth workers while also seeing first-hand how young people respond to Gen AI delivery. 

One highlight was speaking with young people as they designed an e-sports game alongside industry experts. It was brilliant to watch their ideas develop in real time and hear their perspectives. 

What really stayed with me was seeing one of the quieter young people gradually grow in confidence. Later on, he came out of his shell and challenged me to a game of ping pong and I was definitely no match! It didn’t end there either; I was persuaded into the boxing ring to have a go at hitting the pads – exhilarated doesn’t quite cover just how much joy there was in letting my inner-child free! 

Have you visited a Youth Zone yet? What did you think?

So far, I’ve visited seven Youth Zones, six of which I work closely with through Project Gen AI. My first impression was, “Wow — this feels like something out of Camp Rock!” (yes, the Disney reference felt very fitting). 

I genuinely love the time I spend at the Youth Zones. I’ve been lucky enough to get involved in session delivery, work directly with young people and attend an award ceremony hosted at a youth zone, which has been incredibly inspiring. 

What stands out most is the level of support they provide – from the energy, connection and creativity that youth workers bring, to the huge variety of opportunities and facilities on offer, right through to the safe, welcoming spaces they create for young people. 

The energy, buzz and positivity are contagious. A day at a Youth Zone always leaves you smiling and feeling inspired. 

What would be your go-to Youth Zone room and why?

Definitely the boxing room! Kick boxing and martial arts have always been some of my favourite de-stressors – nothing beats a good dopamine boost and looking after your health! 

Tell us a fun fact about yourself

In 2025, I was recognised as one of the Top 25 Under 25 Inspiring Young Leaders through the Common Purpose Global Legacy Award, in recognition of my work in Youth Voice and Influence.