Batting for success: How Chance to Shine and RBC Wealth Management are shaping future leaders through cricket

“Sport, especially cricket, teaches young people so much more than just the game itself,” says Joe Root, England cricketer and RBC Wealth Management Europe (RBC WM) ambassador. “It teaches teamwork, resilience, and social awareness, all of which are invaluable later in life.”

Root’s perspective sets the tone for a dynamic new community leadership partnership between Chance to Shine and RBC WM, dedicated to equipping Britain’s youth with key life skills through a cricket-centric leadership programme.

Chance to Shine is a national charity that works in state schools and communities across Britain to give all children the opportunity to play, learn and develop through cricket.

“Leadership isn’t one size fits all; it’s about understanding your strengths and using them to bring out the best in those around you,” says Root. “I’m excited to see how this partnership will inspire young people to develop these skills and take them forward into their futures.”

The partnership aligns with RBC’s purpose of helping the communities in which it operates prosper, while supporting Chance to Shine’s ambition to reach one million children annually by 2028.

“We believe in the power of cricket to help young people fulfil their potential and connect with opportunities beyond their day-to-day lives,” says Kate Stephens, CEO of Chance to Shine. “Our collaboration with RBC will help us equip young people with the skills they need and we’re incredibly grateful for their support.”

Empowering tomorrow’s leaders

To launch the partnership, RBC WM volunteers were given a first-hand experience of leadership in action at Durham’s picturesque cricket ground, The Seat Unique Riverside. Year 10 students from Durham Johnston Comprehensive School – participants in the Chance to Shine girls leadership programme – stepped into coaching roles, leading the RBC team through a series of cricket activities.

In the morning session, the students led warm-ups and coached the volunteers in batting, bowling and fielding drills, showcasing their leadership skills and confidence in the game. The afternoon session shifted focus to a leadership development task, where the students worked with the volunteers in a Dragon’s Den-style activity. This included pitching their ideas to a panel of experts and putting their newly honed skills into practice.

In the words of Florence, a Year 10 pupil: “At first, I was a bit nervous because I was meeting people I’d never met before. But my leadership skills have really improved – I was able to instruct people and demonstrate techniques, which was a first for me!”

The experience was equally impactful for the RBC WM volunteers. “The Year 10 students took on a real leadership role during the activities. They were mature, confident and really took charge,” added Niamh, one of the volunteers. “It was amazing to see how they grew in confidence throughout the day – from being a little reserved during introductions to leading us through the activities with real authority.”

Watch highlights from Chance to Shine’s collaborative session with Durham Johnston Comprehensive School and RBC WM volunteers, and explore the purpose behind the partnership.

Impact beyond the boundary

For RBC WM, this partnership transcends cricket – it’s about empowering young people to lead and inspiring employees through impactful volunteering opportunities.

“We’re really proud to support Chance to Shine as their community leadership partner,” says Robin Beer, CEO of RBC WM Europe. “This partnership gives us the opportunity to engage with communities across Britain.”

“Leadership is not about seniority or experience – it’s a mindset, and we’re excited to help young people develop the skills they need to lead themselves, lead others, and ultimately, lead their communities.”

Beer also emphasises the reciprocal benefits for the RBC WM volunteers. “When our employees volunteer with Chance to Shine, it’s a two-way street. Not only are they helping young people develop crucial life skills, but they’re also learning and growing themselves. This partnership is for everyone, not just cricket fans, and we’re excited to see the lasting impact it will have.”

With RBC WM’s support, Chance to Shine is poised to impact even more young lives through cricket, ensuring children from underserved communities have the chance to develop leadership skills, build resilience and cultivate a lifelong love for the game. As this partnership grows, it promises to create a lasting legacy in communities throughout Britain.