Chris Henderson is the founder of the UK Top Influencer Academy, creating accessible work experience at national-level events for young people across the North East. Chris launched the programme with just six students after recognising that many talented young people were excluded from creative industry opportunities concentrated in London and other major cities. Travel, accommodation and participation costs often place these experiences beyond their reach. By bringing opportunities directly to the region, Chris grew the programme from six placements to 50 students from local colleges in 2026. Participants gained hands-on experience across production, photography, videography, hair, makeup and event operations at a celebrity-led national event. Chris is now working towards creating 250 placements, giving more young people the confidence, experience, professional networks and CV credentials needed to enter competitive creative industries, regardless of their financial circumstances, location or existing connections.