Award-winning entrepreneur to lead on Opportunity Pass for young people

Rose Marley with apprentices

An award-winning social entrepreneur is to spearhead a drive to increase opportunities for young people across Greater Manchester.

Rose Marley, Director of Rose Marley Management and CEO of the award-winning Social Enterprise, SharpFutures has been appointed to work with brands and businesses to empower young people across Greater Manchester with a rich variety of opportunity.

This project forms a core element of Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham’s commitment to open up the city by providing free bus travel to 16 to 18-year-olds. 

The Opportunity Pass, which is subject to approval by Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), aims to halt a decline in bus use by young people and stimulate an increase in patronage. Removing barriers to transport will help young people access education, employment, training and socialising which, in turn, supports the future prosperity of Greater Manchester.

As well as free bus travel, it will also provide direct access to a range of opportunities for young people available in the city-region.  

Andy Burnham said, “Rose brings a wealth of experience in delivering extraordinary projects across Greater Manchester. Combined with her passion for enabling young people to fulfil their potential, she is the ideal person to bring this initiative to life.” 

Rose, who will work with the Youth Combined Authority to develop the initiative, said: “At the heart of this project sits the message that there’s an abundance of opportunities for young people across Greater Manchester. Encouraging them on to our buses opens up the chance to access jobs, education, and culture. The message to young people – our emerging workforce – is clear – Greater Manchester is a place rich in opportunity where you can build sustainable careers and live fulfilling lives.

“Greater Manchester’s business community is already right behind us providing some exciting opportunities for when we launch.” 

The plans for the pass will be considered by GMCA at the special budget meeting on 15 February and 29 March. Rose has been appointed by Transport for Greater Manchester, who will be responsible for the administration of the pass if approved by GMCA.