A CHAMPION for young people across Bolton has been appointed to a national role which will see him advocate to give this and future generation the "best chance in life", no matter their background.

Saeed Atcha, the CEO of Xplode Magazine, has been appointed by Her Majesty’s Government to the role of Social Mobility Commissioner.

The past seven years of the 22-year-old's life has been dedicated to public service and social mobility is something that he says has "defined" him.

Mr Atcha, who lives in Middle Hulton, said: "I am delighted to have been appointed and I am excited for the next chapter of my public service.

"This has really taken me by surprise. I was really shocked when I found out. Someone from Bolton is now having influence in national policy and holding Government to account."

There was a three-month recruitment process for the post.

The former Manchester Metropolitan University student will use his own experiences to challenge Government, businesses and society as a whole to create a fair system for those who have had modest starts in life.

From living on a council estate being brought up by a single mum on benefits, to being brought up within the care system when his mother became unwell, Mr Atcha has always drawn on his past for motivation to champion for the disadvantaged.

He will undertake his new role as Social Mobility Commissioner alongside existing commitments.

Current work includes supporting young people into employment through the youth-led Xplode Magazine, supporting social action in his role as a trustee of Step up to Serve — the Prince of Wales's Charitable Foundation — and creating opportunities for children and young people through the charity Young Manchester.

Mr Atcha is also keen to give young people a voice in decision making.

Education Secretary, MP Damian Hinds, said: "The new team of commissioners brings together established business men and women, policy makers, academics and young people with real-life experiences of social mobility to help create a fair system where people can thrive."

The Social Mobility Commission will be relaunched on December 11.