My name is David Walton.
I am the author of Blended Culture Identity, Founder of the CEO in the Making: Young Ambassadors Programme (YAP), Founder of David Walton Leadership, and Founder of the Rising Stars Awards.
I am also a Community Ambassador with AFIUK and a Youth Category Judge for the ICS Health Care Can Do Awards.
Q1. In 2017, you were pictured as a baby on the lap of the Mayor Cllr. Julie Young during the Commonwealth Celebrations. What do you think about that moment now?
A: Looking back, I believe my mum was already positioning me for leadership. Even at a young age, I was being exposed to spaces of influence and opportunity.
Q2. In 2019, you were holding a placard saying “I Love Our Libraries.” What was happening?
A: I joined a march in Colchester to raise my voice as a young reader. I wanted to say clearly: please don’t close our libraries. It was important for me to stand up for something that matters.
Q3. In 2022, you gave a speech at the Mayor Making for Cllr. Tim Young. How was that experience?
A: It was a great honour. I thanked them for choosing AFIUK as one of their charities. It was also special because they were the first Mayor and Mayoress of the City of Colchester — a historic moment.
Q4. You met the poet J. Hegley at the Town Hall. How did that feel?
A: It was a brilliant moment meeting such a creative and inspiring poet.
Q5. You met King Charles III and Queen Camilla in 2023. What did that mean to you?
A: It was an honour to be part of history and to represent the community at such an important moment.
Q6. You often speak about the late Lawrence Walker. Why is he important to you?
A: He was my basketball coach and mentor. The skills he taught me go beyond sport — they are leadership skills. After he passed away, I started coaching Under-14 basketball to continue the vision he had. I am carrying on his legacy.
Q7. You describe yourself as a “CEO in the Making.” Where did that come from?
A: I first said it in 2022 during a speech at the Mayor Making. People laughed at the time — but now it has become my flagship idea. Today, it has grown into a full programme:
CEO in the Making – Young Ambassadors Programme (YAP)
with four pillars:
Q8. You secured funding for your programme. How did that happen?
A: I wrote a proposal to the Tudwick Foundation and was successful.
I’m grateful because it means young people who may not have access can now take part in the programme.
Q9. You attended Business Kids. What did you learn?
A: I learned about entrepreneurship, leadership, and confidence. After completing two programmes,
I became a Junior Facilitator, which was a great honour. It helped shape me as an entrepreneur in the making.
Q10. You received the King’s Award with AFIUK. What was that experience like?
A: It was an incredible day. I received the award on behalf of the Community Ambassadors. Later, the Lord Lieutenant mentioned me in a letter, saying I have a great future ahead — and I believe I do.
Q11. You were interviewed by ITV News. How did that feel?
A: It was a great honour to speak about such a prestigious award and represent the work we are doing.
Q12. You were featured alongside designer Philipp Plein. What did you learn?
A: I asked him how he became successful. He said: discipline, commitment, and focus. That stayed with me.
Q13. You spoke at the Police “Towards Excellence” Conference. What stood out?
A: It was a powerful moment to speak about safety and community. The facilitator said I had “Prime Minister potential,” which really inspired me. I also had the opportunity to connect with senior leaders, including the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner and Chief Constable.
Q14. You attended the UK Business Show in 2024 and 2025. What did you gain from it?
A: I met inspiring people, including authors and entrepreneurs. One special moment was meeting an author in 2024, then seeing him again in 2025 — this time taking a photo with my book. I also listened to speakers like Steven Bartlett, whose insights have inspired me.
Q15. You spoke at a Cancer Research Symposium in Kenya. Why was that important?
A: I spoke about cancer awareness from personal experience, having lost people close to me. I was also honoured to present the Lawrence Walker Award to a cancer survivor.
Q16. You’ve spoken about mentors, coaches, and cheerleaders. Why is that important?
A: Every young person needs three people in their life:
I’ve shared this message with large audiences, including over 2,500 people in Kenya.
Q17. You received the Jack Petchey Award. What does it mean to you?
A: It’s a great recognition of the work I’m doing in the community and motivates me to keep going.
Q18. Your book is now in your school library. How did that feel?
A: It gave me confidence. My school purchased copies, and I was invited to speak at Identity Day. It showed me that young people’s voices matter.
Q19. You’ve spoken at the Children and Families Hub. What impact did that have?
A: I spoke about culture and identity and how professionals can better support young people. It was encouraging that my book is now being used by staff and foster carers.
Q 20. You admire Anthony Roberts. Why?
A: I admire his leadership and the work he has done in the community. Every time we speak, I learn something new.
“This is just the beginning — I am a CEO in the Making.”
Q21. I understand you attended the Rotary Club of Colchester Forum. How did you find the experience?
A: It was a real eye-opener for me. Being part of a business meeting at that level gave me a new perspective. I was surrounded by people who have had successful careers and are now dedicated to giving back to society.
It inspired me to see how leadership doesn’t stop — it continues through service, experience, and supporting others. It also showed me the importance of learning from those who have gone before us.
“It reminded me that leadership is not just about achieving — it’s about giving back.”