Leo Powell is one of the UK's leading Independent County Lines educators, delivering assemblies and talks in primary, secondary schools, and colleges across the UK.  Leo's work as a County Lines educator is crucial in safeguarding and protecting young people from the dangers of gang involvement and exploitation. His dedication and passion for this cause have made him a respected and sought-after figure in the field of County Lines education.

 

 Having worked with young people in gang-affiliated environments, particularly those in the criminal justice system, Leo has first-hand knowledge of the dangers and consequences of being involved in County Lines activities. He has also extensively researched the subject, drawing on the expertise of experienced practitioners in the field of gangs, County Lines, and child criminal exploitation.

​

Leo's passion for educating and safeguarding young people has led him to develop a comprehensive County Lines education programme, which he delivers to a wide range of audiences including practitioners, youth organisations, churches, communities, and parents. This programme has been praised for its effectiveness in providing practical advice and guidance to young people and those working with them.

​

Leo's work in the area of County Lines has gained huge traction and recognition, with features on prominent media outlets such as BBC London News, the BBC News website, BBC Radio London and Radio 5 Live. 

​

Leo's work on County Lines has garnered recognition from the National County Lines Coordination Centre, leading to opportunities for collaboration. His efforts have facilitated meetings with influential figures at New Scotland Yard, allowing him to engage in key initiatives that align with the strategies outlined in the Disrupting County Lines Policing Strategy for 2024-2027.

​

Leo's dedication to supporting young people spans over 15 years and encompasses a diverse range of roles across multiple sectors. He began his journey as a Youth Pastor at Jubilee Church London, where he spent a decade nurturing and guiding youth in a community setting. Following this, Leo took on the role as a Behaviour Mentor at Chase Community School in Enfield, where he focused on fostering positive behavior and academic success among students.  His commitment to mentorship continued at HMYOI Feltham, where he worked closely with young offenders, providing guidance and support to help them navigate their challenges. Leo then returned to the educational sector as Head of Year at St Ignatius College in Enfield, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the academic and personal development of his students. Through these varied experiences, Leo has developed a deep understanding of the unique needs of young people, equipping him with the skills to make a lasting impact in their lives.

​

Leo's commitment to empowering young people has not only driven him to become a County Lines educator but has also inspired him to explore creative avenues, such as filmmaking. He has produced three impactful short films that have collectively garnered over four million views on YouTube, showcasing his ability to engage and resonate with a wide audience.  His innovative approach to storytelling has caught the attention of key organisations, including the Metropolitan Police and the London Violence Reduction Unit, both of which have recognised and funded his work. This support has been instrumental in the production of two of his short films, further amplifying his message and reaching even more young people.  Through his films, Leo aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by youth today, while also providing them with the tools and inspiration to make positive choices in their lives.

​

In addition to his work as a County Lines Educator and Filmmaker, Leo is also a Pastor at The Peniel Centre church in Cheshunt.