Meet Trae.
Founder of The Chosen Academy.

My name is Trae, and I’m the founder of The Chosen Academy.

I’m a development coach, actor and father of three, with a genuine passion for supporting children, young people and families through meaningful experiences that encourage confidence, personal growth and positive development.

The Chosen Academy was built from a belief that every individual has value, potential and something meaningful to contribute, regardless of their background, circumstances or the challenges they may face.

My journey has shaped the way I see people, particularly young people who may feel overlooked, misunderstood, discouraged or unsure of their future.

Losing my father at the age of 12 was a significant experience in my own life. It helped shape my understanding of how important positive relationships, encouragement, guidance and consistent support can be during a young person’s development.

As I’ve grown, I’ve become increasingly passionate about the importance of positive role models, particularly men who are willing to invest their time, energy and character into supporting the next generation.

I believe that sometimes the smallest interaction, a conversation, an encouraging word, a challenge or simply someone believing in you, can make a lasting difference.

Why I Created The Chosen Academy

The Chosen Academy was created to provide more than traditional training, coaching or activities.

I wanted to build an organisation where people could connect, discover their strengths, develop practical skills, experience new opportunities and grow in confidence.

My approach is rooted in five principles:

Connect. Inspire. Equip. Empower. Grow.

These principles guide how we engage with every child, young person, family and organisation we work with.

Through development coaching, mentoring, sports games, activities, childcare and employability training, my goal is to create experiences that are engaging, purposeful and genuinely beneficial.

The Vision Behind TCEE

One of the areas I’m particularly passionate about is preparing young people for the realities of employment.

I recognised that traditional employability support often focuses on telling young people what employers expect, without always giving them the opportunity to experience and practise those expectations.

That’s why I developed The Chosen Employability Experience™.

By combining practical workplace simulations, role play, drama, activity-based learning and reflection, I want to help young people experience realistic challenges, develop professional behaviours and build confidence before entering the workplace.

For me, employability is about more than getting a job. It’s about helping young people understand their value, communicate effectively, navigate challenges and recognise what they can contribute.

Faith, Purpose & People

My Christian faith is an important foundation of The Chosen Academy.

I believe we are called to serve others with love, patience, kindness, integrity and compassion.

While my faith guides the values and purpose behind the organisation, The Chosen Academy is committed to welcoming, respecting and supporting children, young people and families from all backgrounds, beliefs and walks of life.

My heart is to help people feel seen, valued, encouraged and equipped to move forward.

Looking Ahead

My vision is to see The Chosen Academy continue growing into an organisation that creates meaningful opportunities through partnerships with schools, colleges, employers, charities, councils and communities.

I want TCA to be known not simply for delivering sessions, but for creating experiences that people remember and skills they can carry into everyday life.

Because sometimes all it takes is the right opportunity, the right environment and someone who genuinely believes in you.

“Every interaction is an opportunity to connect, inspire, equip, empower and help someone grow.”