KSI attended the launch of a new government-funded youth centre called The Rising Generation
YouTube star KSI – who recently became a part-owner of Dagenham and Redbridge FC – has helped to launch a new youth centre in Marks Gate.
The Rising Generation (TRG) has been created in close partnership with local young people, using government-backed support via the Youth Investment Fund and Better Youth Spaces Fund.
Formerly Padnall Hall, the transformed TRG building now offers a “modern, inclusive and youth‑led space for creativity, wellbeing, personal development and community connection”.
The centre reflects contributions from more than 200 young people, who shaped its name, design ideas, storytelling identity and the vision for how the space should feel and function.
Last week’s launch event also marked the 25-year anniversary of Barking and Dagenham Youth Forum, one of the borough’s longest-running youth leadership programmes. The forum has engaged more than 1,250 young people since 1999 and has influenced community safety, produced educational campaigns, delivered peer‑led sessions across schools and helped shape youth services across the borough.
During the event, KSI announced that Iannis Bonciu, a student at Eastbrook School, had been chosen by youth forum members as Barking and Dagenham’s new young mayor for the 2026/27 term.
Iannis will represent young people at civic events and support fundraising for this year’s chosen charity, Young Carers, which provides essential support to children and young people aged eight to 18 who look after a family member with long-term illness, disability or mental health needs.
Council leader Dominic Twomey said: “We were absolutely thrilled to have KSI with us to launch The Rising Generation Youth Centre and to announce our new young mayor. The children loved it and were so excited, inspired, and genuinely uplifted.
“This is just another example of the investment we are making for our youth. Over £2million of government grant funding has transformed this building into a fantastic space. It starts here.”
Elizabeth Kangethe, the council’s cabinet member for educational attainment, added: “Every time I visit our schools and youth spaces, I feel so proud of our incredible young people. They are the rising generation and we’re doing everything we can to help them get the best start in life.
“A huge thank you to all our partners and I look forward to seeing our young people enjoy this fantastic new youth centre.”
The Youth Investment Fund is funded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport and the fund’s delivery partners; Social Investment Business with Key Fund, National Youth Agency, and Resonance.
