On 29 April 2026, during a vibrant community event at Stanley Arts, thank you very much James Moore Croydon CVA for the invite. It was an eventful day an I had the opportunity to meet other community groups. I also had the privilege of meeting Arnaud, a remarkable young leader whose journey with the Palace for Life Foundation is nothing short of inspiring. What began as a brief conversation quickly became a powerful reminder of how lived experience, purpose and opportunity can transform not only one life — but entire communities.
Arnaud’s story is one of resilience, growth and service. From a 15‑year‑old participant at Premier League Kicks to a full‑time Community Engagement Officer, his journey reflects the very best of what community organisations can achieve when they invest in young people with intention and care.
Below is our full Q&A — a chance to hear directly from Arnaud about his path, his passion and the impact he is making across Croydon and South London.
Q&A With Arnaud – Palace for Life Foundation
- How did you begin this role, and what motivated you to get involved with Palace for Life?
“I began my journey with Palace for Life Foundation as a participant at 15 years old, attending the Premier League Kicks programme on a weekly basis.
Years later, as my football playing opportunities decreased, at 20/21 I was invited to take part in a 12‑week coaching qualification programme. This course was designed to develop both my professional and social skills, helping me build the confidence and adaptability needed to work across different environments.
After completing the programme, I became a qualified coach and chose to volunteer my time to demonstrate my commitment to the organisation. This led to me securing a paid sessional role, where I delivered sessions across multiple departments including Community Engagement, Football Development, Primary and Secondary Education, Education Training & Employment and Disability programmes.
In 2022, I progressed into a full‑time role as a Kicks Coach within Community Engagement, delivering the same sessions I once attended as a young person. I have since been promoted to Community Engagement Officer, where I now coordinate and deliver programmes focused on the development of young people.
I found my home within the foundation. Working on projects I'm truly passionate about.
My motivation comes from the young people I work with — I often see a reflection of my younger self in them. I am passionate about providing safe spaces that I didn’t always have growing up and about influencing young people to make positive, healthy choices. Palace for Life helped me find my direction and I want to do the same for the next generation.”
- What personal experiences or values drive your commitment to community work?
“I come from a background shaped by antisocial environments, where what I understood as safety, belonging and family was often viewed negatively by others.
Growing up, I faced a number of challenges, including my mother’s declining health, which led to me becoming a young carer. I had to take on responsibilities very early and find ways to provide for both of us.
As someone who was smaller in stature, the people I surrounded myself with gave me a sense of protection and belonging during a time when I felt vulnerable and alone.
These experiences have shaped my perspective and drive my commitment to this work. They remind me that many young people are navigating difficult circumstances and need support, guidance and understanding. I use my experiences to connect with them and to show that positive change is possible.”
- What does a typical day look like for you in this role?
“No two days are exactly the same, but a large part of my role involves planning, administration and building relationships within the community to maximise our impact.
Some days, you’ll find me mentoring young people and delivering structured one‑to‑one interventions. On others, I’m deep in admin.
My busiest day is usually Thursday. I start at 9am in the office responding to emails, completing registers, planning upcoming sessions and interventions.
In the afternoon, I deliver the Community Hub session at Oasis Academy Shirley Park from 3pm to 5pm. I then travel to #MerkyFC HQ to deliver an evening Kicks session from 6pm to 8pm.
While some aspects of the role are behind the scenes, everything contributes to creating meaningful opportunities and support for young people.”
- What programme or project are you most proud of, and why?
“I returned to my former secondary school and developed a space where young people could come together to have fun, express themselves and feel safe without judgement.
I would say I am most proud of the Community Hub at Oasis Academy Shirley Park, a session I created three years ago after identifying a gap in provision within the local area. The opportunity to open the doors of my former school to the community and utilise their facilities is something I never believed would be possible. This concept is now used across my department, developing relationships with local schools to provide more community spaces for young people.
What makes this particularly meaningful is seeing the impact it has had. We now have over 80 young people attending each week. That level of engagement shows how valuable the space is to them and reinforces the importance of accessible, safe environments within the community.”
- What challenges do young people in the community face that your work helps address?
“Young people face a range of challenges, including limited access to opportunities and resources, risks around crime and antisocial behaviour, mental health and wellbeing issues, and barriers to education and employment.
Some also experience social exclusion or lack positive role models and support networks, which can affect their confidence and sense of belonging.
Through our work, we provide safe, inclusive spaces where young people can feel supported and valued. Our sessions combine football with life skills development, helping to build communication, confidence and teamwork.
In areas where young people may be exposed to crime, we also deliver workshops, partner with local authorities to educate and raise awareness of risks and consequences, while offering positive alternatives. Consistent role models and mentorship play a key role in guiding young people and helping them make informed decisions about their futures.”
- Can you share a moment or success story that has stayed with you?
“One moment that has stayed with me happened when I ran into a former participant at a petrol station. He approached me and asked, ‘Coach, do you remember me?’
At first, I didn’t recognise him due to his physical development, but as soon as he told me his name, I remembered him instantly. He thanked me for the support I gave him when he was younger and shared how well he was doing now.
I had first worked with him when he was around 13 or 14 and now, in his early twenties, he was thriving. Driving, achieving and moving forward in life.
Moments like that remind me why I do this work. Knowing that I played even a small part in someone’s journey is incredibly powerful.”
- What are your hopes for the future of the young people you support?
“My hope is simple — that they find success and happiness, whatever that looks like for them.
Life will challenge them in different ways, but if they are able to achieve their personal goals and build a life they are proud of, then I feel I have done my job.
I will continue to provide guidance, stability and consistency to every young person I work with.”
- What message would you give to others who want to make a difference in their community?
“Giving back to your community is incredibly rewarding.
Behaviours are learned and if we can model positivity, take ownership and support one another, we can create better environments for us and the next generation.
Change doesn’t always require something big. Consistent, genuine support can have a lasting impact.”
As part of that commitment, I’ll be taking on a sponsored ride, “Bike from Arsenal – The 100 Mile Tour,” raising funds for Palace for Life, which all the money raised directly supports young people in our community through sport and development programmes.
If you’d like to support or share, you can find my fundraising page here.
https://www.justgiving.com/page/arnaud-zadi-bike-from-arsenal?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL
Closing Reflection
Arnaud’s journey is a testament to what happens when potential meets opportunity — and when a young person is given the space, support and belief they deserve. His work with Palace for Life is not only transforming the lives of young people today; it is shaping the future of Croydon’s communities.
Meeting him at Stanley Arts was a reminder that leadership doesn’t always come from titles or positions. Sometimes it comes from lived experience, compassion and the courage to return to the very spaces that shaped you — determined to make them better for the next generation.
Croydon is richer because of people like Arnaud.
See more photos and footage from the day’s event using the links below:
Croydon Voluntary Action’s albums | Flickr
Also last but not least a very special thankyou to Brenda for attending and supporting Debt Today Free Tomorrow. You bought warmth and positivity to the space.
2 Comments
What a heartfelt, passionate and challenging journey this young man, had to face.
But despite this I admire his resilience and courage and what a beautiful spirit and incredible person you are.
Keep pushing!
Very inspiring post and story. Thank you for sharing