- King Charles visits Manchester
- The King's Trust supports young creatives
- DJing session brings 'granddad vibes'
King Charles, at 77, stepped into the vibrant city of Manchester on March 16, 2026, to witness firsthand the impact of his longstanding charity, The King's Trust. This initiative, which began 50 years ago as The Prince's Trust, aims to empower disadvantaged young people by providing them with job opportunities and essential skills. During his visit, the King was warmly received as he explored the creative talents nurtured by his organization.
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The King's Trust and Creative Futures
The monarch's visit included a stop at Aviva Studios, where he participated in a DJing session, a nod to actor Idris Elba's favorite pastime. Elba, who benefited from a grant from The Prince's Trust at 18, has been instrumental in launching the Creative Futures program. This initiative, a collaboration between The King's Trust and the Elba Hope Foundation, has supported over 100 young people in the arts. Elba's journey from a grant recipient to a successful actor and ambassador underscores the program's transformative power.
During his time at Aviva Studios, King Charles was guided by 22-year-old Christian St. Louis in the art of DJing. St. Louis, who has been supported by The King's Trust, shared his experience: “I showed him how to put the fade up and stop one track and fade the second one in.” The young instructor noted the King's genuine enthusiasm and described him as having "granddad vibes," a term of endearment reflecting wisdom and warmth. The session was a hit, with attendees applauding the monarch's efforts.
Expanding Horizons and Community Engagement
Beyond Aviva Studios, King Charles engaged with the community, unveiling a plaque and meeting local residents. His visit also included stops at the Renew Hub Greater Manchester and a Greencore food manufacturing site, reflecting his commitment to sustainability and reducing food waste. The day's events highlighted the King's dedication to diverse causes, from creative arts to environmental responsibility.