IN4 Group’s gametech division has launched the Manchester Esports Academy (MEA), a first-of-its-kind, junior professional esports education and skills programme for young people in Greater Manchester from the ages of 8 to 16, giving them access to career opportunities in the multi-billion pound video game industry.
The academy was officially launched at HOST, the Home of Skills & Technology’s, state-of-the-art Gametech campus by Angela Rayner, Member of Parliament for Ashton-under-Lyne, Droylsden and Failsworth, Deputy Leader of the Labour Party and Shadow First Secretary of State as part of the We Invented the Weekend festival in MediaCity and Salford Quays.
Across the festival weekend, families had free access to its unique Esports Extravaganza, which included taster sessions of the MEA syllabus such as professional coaching, careers education and health and nutrition. It also included casual play on cutting-edge games consoles and mini-tournaments with a professional esports team.
Established by IN4 and operating at HOST in MediaCity, the MEA will be available for parents through a monthly subscription, however, it will be fully subsidised for young people in Greater Manchester from disadvantaged backgrounds and those presently being supported by Children in Need.
The MEA aims to transfer passion and play into positive personal development for young people. It will educate parents on the career pathways in the fastest-growing entertainment sector in the world and illustrate how the skills developed in gameplay are so highly sought after by employers.
Media City is a world-leading creative digital cluster and with the MEA based there, it will ensure local young people have reason to access the campus and believe their futures belong there.
The MEA programme will be delivered by Esports Coaching Academy (ECA) certified coaches, which ensures the highest standards in coaching with a combination of personalised guidance and specialised training modules.
Mo Isap, CEO of IN4 Group, said: “The video game and esports industry is exploding on a global scale and we’re excited to support our young people in the region with the Manchester Esports Academy, in the heart of MediaCity. The career opportunities in esports are immense and we want young people in Greater Manchester to know that they too can be a part of this fast-growing, multi-billion pound industry.
“We believe young people from all backgrounds should have fair access to technology futures, and by supporting local young people to find their passion and harness it as fuel, they can achieve great things in their future careers.”
Abdiqani Ahmed, previously founder of one of the UK’s most successful professional esports teams, is now Head of Esports at IN4 Group and programme lead for the new Manchester Esports Academy. He said: “Manchester Esports Academy offers a unique approach by blending professional coaching and soft skills development, with a focus on health and nutrition, the academy offers a holistic educational experience like no other and goes beyond traditional classroom-style training.
“Aspiring gamers and their parents can rest assured they will receive top-tier training, preparing them for exciting careers in the esports and video games sectors. With its three areas of focus, the Manchester Esports Academy sets the stage for success, fostering a vibrant community of passionate gamers ready to take on the world of esports.”
Parents and carers who want to learn more about the MEA can register their interest here.
ENDS
Notes for Editors
Link for further information about the Manchester Esports Academy (MEA): https://in4group.co.uk/manchester-esports-academy/
Link to download hi-res images: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1P0ZZzGkwhMLSQFUhyg9WUHIvjjUlc8XW?usp=share_link
Image descriptions: L-r: CEO of IN4 Group Mo Isap; Angela Rayner, Member of Parliament for Ashton-under-Lyne, Droylsden and Failsworth, Deputy Leader of the Labour Party and Shadow First Secretary of State; and Abdiqani Ahmed, Head of Esports at IN4 Group.
Selection of images from the IN4 Gametech campus at HOST in MediaCity.
For further information, contact:
Jen Lau
HOST and IN4 Group
07531 945157
jen@in4group.co.uk
About IN4 Group
IN4 Group is a leading technology group, driving prosperity for businesses and communities. It delivers a unique technology talent acquisition solution, unlocking the potential from within diverse and disadvantaged communities, this is mapped into organisations that are scaled through its innovation hubs and programmes. Ensuring fair access to technology futures for all. in4group.co.uk
Twitter: @IN4_Group
LinkedIn: IN4 Group
About HOST
HOST, the Home of Skills & Technology, operated by IN4 Group, is an innovation hub at the heart of MediaCity. Formerly known as The Landing, it is an inclusive community of innovators in data analytics, cyber security, AI and immersive technology.
With five floors of labs, R&D and prototyping environments, HOST offers specialist support, affordable workspace, training and social spaces for people and businesses to start up, scale up and connect.
HOST is part of Salford's Innovation Triangle, and sits alongside Salford Royal Foundation Trust, with its global innovation factory; Salford University, the fastest-growing university in the North West; and MediaCity, the media and technology destination that’s home to over 250 creative and digital businesses. hostsalford.com
Twitter: @HOSTSalford
LinkedIn: HOSTSalford
Instagram: HOST_Salford
Facebook: HOSTSalford