Taking the lead

On the 6th April three charity representatives from 'Fight for Peace,' 'Otesha' and 'Muslim Youth Helpline' came to the young foundation to discuss the recent publication 'Taking the Lead' which explores youth leadership and youth employment, with a audience of around 40 people ready to ask them questions.Having the opportunity to chair the panel during such a lively debate proved both a informative and thought-provoking experience. Undeniably, the innovation and motivation behind the success of each project was truly inspiring, and it was only as the discussion progressed that I began to understand the true impact of such organisations.

The topics raised led to interesting debates surrounding topics such as the language of leadership and the issue of maintaining youth engagement. There was general consensus of the need to maintain open-ended projects with a creative medium to attract and maintain the engagement of the youth. This really confirmed my belief that there is a strong need for projects and organisations which emphasise the importance of non-academic achievements to help young people achieve their potential, even if this is outside of school. This was something emphasised, in particular, through 'Fight For Peace' who's innovative approach of combining boxing with personal development was helping to change the lives of hundreds of young people. This discussion furthered onto the issue surrounding the education system and how it in many cases prompted excluded individuals. This was a really interesting issue, the solution however, appears to lie outside the hands of just a few organisations, it definately encouraged me to question the need for wider participation and change, especially beyond the voluntary sector.

What I'll take away from this experience goes far beyond practice at public speaking or my communication skills, the whole event emphasised the need for a national movement towards a better approach to 'Taking the lead.' The report emphasises in itself the barriers to youth leadership and employment, now arises the more difficult issue of combating these problems. But meeting with the enthusiastic and energetic individuals from charities across the country who are fighting for exactly this cause made me feel a better tommorrow may not be so far away.

Gurdeep