BIG EDUCATION CONVERSATION CELEBRATION! YOUNG PEOPLE HONOURED AT CELEBRATION EVENT
The event celebrated young people who had participated in the Big Education Conversation Project Council over the last two years.
Young people from across England celebrated their accomplishments at an event marking the end of the Big Education Conversation Project Council. Organised by Youth Leads UK, the event took place in Birmingham’s East Side Rooms, where Project Council Members were brought together for one last time.
The Project Council have been advising the Big Education Conversation strategy and hosting their own Big Education Conversations. The group of 17 young people have been supported by Big Change and Youth Leads UK.
Project Council Members shared their thoughts and experiences on the purpose of education, how the system could improve, and the personal barriers they face. Members also celebrated their achievements:
- Hosting a Big Education Conversation in Blackpool with Shadow Education Secretary, Bridget Philipson MP
- Influencing policy by sharing their insights and guiding an IPPR policy report
- Helping take the initiative international by hosting interactive sessions, part of the Learning Planet Festival
Read more about the Project Council and their achievements here.
Addressing the attendees, Alex Christopoulos, Senior Associate at Big Change, said:
“I’m sure some of the relationships you made here will continue to impact your lives. It’s been fantastic to share the power and have genuine youth voice throughout this initiative, and I hope that the newfound perspectives you’ve gained will stay with you.”
Hajrah, 14, a Project Council Member, said:
“My favourite part of being involved with the Project Council was the in-person meetings, meeting new people, and getting everyone’s views on education! It’s also really helped with my ability to communicate and present.”
Formelle, 19, a Project Council Member, said:
“The biggest lesson I’ve learnt from being a Project Council Member is that I should be more open-minded; how to listen to other people and consider their views.”
Saeed Atcha MBE DL, Founder and CEO of Youth Leads UK, said:
“Seeing how Project Council Members have dedicated themselves these past two years to making positive changes in the education sector is nothing short of inspiring. I have attended several Big Education Conversations and seen first-hand the passion, resilience, and motivation they have for the cause; this is only the beginning, and I am sure they will continue to make meaningful changes in the community around them.”
Following activities, the sharing of stories, and a certificate presentation ceremony, attendees enjoyed lunch. Photos from the event can be found here.
