Alice Chalret

My background and experience

I work at the intersection of community engagement, partnerships and youth support, connecting people and organisations to create opportunities for those who need them most. I began my career in France within the probation service, leading outreach work, before moving into the charity sector to support disadvantaged students as they transitioned into employment and adulthood. Now based in the UK, I partner with local businesses and individuals to provide mentors and opportunities for young people in Ealing, ensuring each has a trusted adult who can guide, encourage and champion their potential.

What I enjoy most about my work

What I enjoy most is the sense of purpose and long-term impact. Supporting young people isn’t just about helping in the here and now, it’s about shaping the kind of society we’ll all be part of tomorrow. I also genuinely love meeting and connecting with people who share similar values, there’s something energising about bringing people around a shared goal and seeing what we can build collectively.

Who I am beyond my work

I’m a creative soul with a big love for dance.

What my business does

MCR Pathways is a national charity supporting young people in Ealing through a weekly, face-to-face mentoring programme. Each young person is matched with a dedicated volunteer mentor who provides one hour of consistent support during the school day, for a minimum of one year.
We also work closely with local businesses and organisations to create additional opportunities for young people. By combining one-to-one mentoring with access to real-world experiences, we help young people build confidence, broaden their horizons, and take meaningful steps towards a positive future.

What sets my business apart

What sets MCR Pathways apart is our personalised approach to mentoring. Each young person is carefully matched with a mentor based on shared interests, backgrounds and personalities, ensuring a strong, meaningful connection.

We provide ongoing support for mentors, with a dedicated member of staff in each location acting as the main point of contact for both mentors and young people. On top of that, mentors become part of a wider community, with opportunities to meet others, share experiences, and continue learning.

The problem my business solves

Many young people, particularly those who are care-experienced or from disadvantaged backgrounds, face barriers that make school and life more challenging. They’re more likely to miss lessons, struggle with their mental health, and leave education without the qualifications or confidence they need.

At MCR Pathways, we tackle this by focusing on three key areas: closing the attainment gap, helping young people re-engage with school through trusted relationships, and supporting them to build confidence and plan for life beyond school.

Our approach works: in 2024–2025, 97% of mentored young people reported improved confidence, aspirations, and goal-setting thanks to a trusted relationship, and 93% went on to employment, education, or training after leaving the programme.