Apple executive chairman Tim Cook has said the company plans to expand opportunities for young people to develop creative skills and explore careers through its partnership with The King’s Trust, a UK charity focused on youth development and employment. The initiative, called Apple x King’s Trust Creative Labs, has begun with hands-on music workshops for 15 young participants in London. The programme gives them access to Apple technology, opportunities to create their own music and guidance from professionals in the industry, with the broader aim of helping aspiring creators develop practical skills and confidence.

The first workshops were held at Apple Music Hall, Apple’s performance venue inside London’s Battersea Power Station. During the two-day programme, participants experimented with music creation and worked on their own tracks using Apple technology. They also received guidance from Prophet Guillory, Apple Music’s head of Artist Services, Tools and Community. The format is designed to provide practical experience rather than relying solely on classroom instruction, allowing young people to explore creative possibilities while learning from professionals familiar with the music industry.

Speaking to The Independent, Cook said Apple wanted to contribute to the communities in which it operates by sharing its expertise and resources. “We’re a toolmaker,” he said, explaining that the company develops tools that help people create things they might otherwise be unable to produce. He added that Apple wanted to give back to local communities through initiatives that draw on its own strengths. The approach reflects the company’s stated intention to combine access to technology with opportunities for young people to learn directly from experienced practitioners.

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Cook acknowledged that the workshops require close involvement from mentors and therefore cannot accommodate unlimited numbers of participants at one time. However, he said Apple wanted to reach as many young people as possible. The programme’s initial group of 15 participants provides a starting point for the partnership, although the company has not specified a broader rollout schedule or the number of additional young people it hopes to involve. The emphasis remains on providing individual guidance and practical exposure to creative work.

The collaboration also coincides with the 50th anniversary of The King’s Trust in 2026. The charity works with young people to build confidence, develop life skills and improve their employment prospects. Cook said the partnership was a natural fit because both organisations aim to help young people recognise and develop their potential. Apple’s involvement in the programme also reflects its interest in supporting creative opportunities in the UK, including through access to technology and connections with people working in music and related fields.

The announcement comes after Cook moved from the role of Apple chief executive to executive chairman on September 1, with John Ternus taking over as CEO. Cook said his responsibilities now include international policy and engagement with governments on issues affecting the company. He also intends to support Ternus while allowing him to shape the chief executive role independently. The Creative Labs initiative represents one example of Apple’s community-focused work, using its technology and professional networks to help young people explore creative interests and potential career paths.

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