We’re thrilled to launch our exciting new programme for young people: ‘I AM: a dynamic new experience in partnership with Verizon and utilising our network of Changemaker Studios spaces to build a powerful platform that supports and incubates young changemakers in the UK.
Through the I AM: programme young people from all walks of life, cultures and communities will have the experience to express who they are without judgement, with confidence, and with pride.
WHAT’S IT ABOUT & WHO’S IT FOR?
As human beings we focus so much on what separates us or makes us different to everyone else, losing sight that we should be celebrating those differences. We are all unique.
The programme is aimed at 14-17 year olds. No matter your background, skin colour, sexuality, religion, gender or identity, I AM: seeks to help young people express their true selves, be proud of their culture and who they are, and stand up and say ‘This is who I AM’.
This dynamic free initiative is in partnership with Verizon and will see young people take the lead in tackling equality, diversity and inclusion in their local communities; learning how to leverage and drive positive change.
Throughout the programme they’ll be discovering their own abilities, then using those skills to campaign on issues that are important and personal to them. Whether that’s bigotry, racism, stereotypes, homophobia, transphobia, religious or cultural hate, they’ll understand the principles of democracy, and stand for fairness, equality and racial justice.
THE PROGRAMME
The programme will be delivered from July-December 2022 and will consist of 4 exciting and immersive weekends across Portsmouth and London, including a 1 night residential. Dates will be published shortly.
There will also be equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) and racial justice workshops; campaigning masterclasses, and fun, interactive sessions, enabling young people to better understand power and influence in their communities and make lasting change!
It’s time to break down barriers, crush stereotypes and be who we really are.
LONDON DATES
Weekend 1: 10th July
Weekend 2: 17th/18th September
Weekend 3: 29th/30th October
Weekend 4: 3rd/4th December
PORTSMOUTH DATES
Weekend 1: 9th July
Weekend 2: 1st/2nd October
Weekend 3: 5th/6th November
Weekend 4: 26th/27th November
Senior Programme Facilitator, Stacey Bawden said:
‘’I am really looking forward to bringing this project to life for young people and providing them with an opportunity to explore how they can elicit change. It’s so important we recognise and learn about the injustices within our communities and how we can support social change. I am constantly inspired by the young people we work with and look forward to taking this journey with them.‘’
The I AM: programme is part of a wider project in collaboration with our partners Verizon, consisting of leadership development; exploring social action within local communities, and equipping young people with entrepreneurial skills to take forward into their futures.
Verizon’s CSR, DE&I, & Innovation (EMEA Marketing Manager) Xavier White said:
“I’m delighted that Verizon is able to support this program as part of our ongoing work with Unloc. Diversity and human prosperity are part of our core values and society is one of our four core stakeholders. It’s wonderful that we are able to run programs like this for young people and I look forward to seeing them come to fruition.”
Apply now! The deadline for applications for the I Am programme is the 1st July 2022, spaces are limited so if you or someone you know is interested in signing up then be sure to do so quickly!
For more information or to apply, please click here!
We’d like to give special thanks to Verizon for their support and funding for this exciting new project.
