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Our Team

David Mellis

Senior Philanthropy Manager (Thurrock Youth Zone)

David joined OnSide in April 2017 with over 15 years’ experience with charities transforming the lives of young people. After 6 years at The Prince’s Trust and 10 years redeveloping The Salmon Youth Centre in London, David has advised on millions of pounds of investment in young people. Trained as an engineer with a BEng from Warwick University and a MSc from Cranfield, he started his career in overseas development in Africa. He lives in south London and has two sons. After supporting the development of a new Youth Zone in Croydon, and helping start new Youth Zones across the South of England, David is now gaining the support of business leaders and philanthropists for Thurrock Youth Zone.

What inspired you to join OnSide?

My dream as a teenager was to change the world! So I trained as an Agricultural Engineer and worked in Africa for several year with aid agencies. Starting a family in inner London I felt a big concern for young people (especially boys) struggling to find their way. I helped my local youth club re-develop and when I heard OnSide were building many new youth centre’s like this, I wanted to sign up!

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

Helping open new Youth Zones in Croydon (Legacy) and Hammersmith (WEST) and seeing the faces of the young people as they come through the doors for the first time – brings joy to my heart! And seeing those Youth Zones established with a strong family of Founder Patrons – an ecosystem of support for the future has been a real sign of hope.

What was the first Youth Zone you visited and what did you think?

I remember visiting Bolton Lads and Girls Club in 2002 and was so excited to see someone had already done what we were planning in London. It was full of life and on such a large scale. Fantastic!

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

I love all the sports spaces, but I think the Music Room would be my favourite as there is so much creativity, connection and belonging there.

Tell us a fun fact about yourself

I like cold water swimming and running – usually one after the other!