Youth Conference
The 2014 Youth Conference took place on 27th February. This award-winning conference brings Sixth Form students together from a range of backgrounds to seriously explore key social and political issues in contemporary life. This year’s theme was ‘The Power of Voice’. We explored the ways in which media, arts, activism and political influence can be used to make a positive difference in the world. Speakers included Lucy-Anne Holmes, Activist and founder of the No More Page 3 campaign, Fiona Anderson, Journalist, Mohammed Ali, Graffiti Artist and Rahima Begum, Founder of Restless Beings. We were pleased to welcome students from Northern Ireland and from Somerset to the event, which added to the diversity of perspectives in the day’s discussion.
One of the highlights of the day was when visiting students were given the opportunity to take the floor to share their points of view on the topics raised. Students also shared their points of view in discussion groups, facilitated by Mulberry students, and in afternoon workshops. The conference was also treated to a performance by Spoken Word Artist, Bridget Minamore.
Since its inception, over a decade ago this annual student-led conference has gained a reputation for its challenging discussion and powerful speakers. Students come together in discussion groups and workshops to explore issues and consider the means of becoming active in their communities.
