I’m Aaron Burns, founder of Aaron’s Book Club and ABC Academy, and my mission is clear: to ignite a movement that transforms the lives of young people, taking them beyond the noise of social media and into a world where reading fuels success, ambition, and personal growth.

As a former Manchester United footballer, I understand the discipline and focus it takes to achieve your dreams, but it wasn’t until later in life that I realised how much more I could have accomplished if I had embraced the power of reading earlier. Books became my secret weapon — a tool that not only sharpened my mind but expanded my vision for what’s possible. After transitioning into a flourishing career in life insurance, I saw firsthand how the knowledge and skills I gained through reading changed the trajectory of my life. Now, I’m determined to share that life-changing force with the next generation.

Today’s world is saturated with distractions — endless screens, social media, and fleeting content that’s designed to hold attention but rarely nurtures it. Young people are caught in this cycle, often losing sight of their potential in exchange for temporary validation. My vision is to break that cycle. I want to help young people reclaim their focus, rediscover the joy of learning, and realise that the true power lies not in the number of likes they get but in the knowledge they gain. Through ABC Academy, I’m committed to showing them that books can be their gateway to the world — unlocking doors they never even knew existed.

But this vision goes beyond just reading; it’s about empowerment. I believe that by helping young people step away from screens, we can give them the tools they need to build a stronger, more resilient mindset. Reading teaches patience, critical thinking, and the ability to navigate the world with confidence. It helps them see beyond the superficial and tap into their potential in a way that social media never will. I want to equip them with the skills to thrive — not just academically, but in every aspect of life.

I’m building a movement that aims to spark a profound shift. My goal is to inspire thousands of young people to look away from their phones and pick up a book — not just for the sake of literacy, but to reshape their future. I want them to realise that through reading, they can transform themselves, gaining the knowledge and perspective needed to rise above challenges and seize opportunities.

This is about creating a generation that’s not defined by screens but by their ability to think critically, to lead, and to succeed. My vision is for ABC Academy to be a nationwide force, driving young people to become their best selves through the simple yet powerful act of reading. Together, we can turn the tide, making reading not only cool again but the key to unlocking a future filled with potential, purpose, and lasting success.