Chris Arnold – Building Confidence, Creating Opportunities

Chris Arnold has spent much of his career helping young people discover something many never realise they possess – confidence.

As the new Chair of Positive Futures, he brings almost three decades of experience in entrepreneurship, leadership and youth development, together with an unwavering belief that opportunity can change lives.

Although Chris is recognised internationally for founding Camp Leaders, one of the world’s largest cultural exchange organisations for young people, his story begins much closer to home.

Growing up in Halewood, Liverpool, during the 1980s, Chris attended Halewood Comprehensive. The Hillsborough disaster profoundly shaped his outlook on fairness, justice and making a positive difference.

During a difficult period as a teenager, one inspirational teacher challenged him to think differently about his future. That guidance became the foundation for everything that followed.

After studying at Liverpool John Moores University, Chris travelled extensively, experiences that inspired him to found Camp Leaders in 1998 from his father’s spare bedroom.

What began with just two participants grew into one of the world’s leading camp placement organisations, creating opportunities for around 10,000 young people from more than 70 countries every year.

Following the sale of Camp Leaders, Chris has continued mentoring entrepreneurs, supporting charities and championing organisations that place young people at the heart of their work.

He also serves as a Deputy Lieutenant of Merseyside, recognising his contribution to business, education and community life.

Now, as Chair of Positive Futures, Chris hopes to help strengthen partnerships, broaden opportunities for young people and support the charity’s long-term vision.

He believes every young person deserves the confidence, support and opportunities to build a brighter future.