Urban drumming, street dance, lyric writing, break dancing and basketball skills are all part of a project that was crowned winner at a local youth challenge event, organised by Hillingdon Council, and is now in with the chance of winning up to £45,000 in a national competition on March 29. To mark the occasion, the project organisers – a group of young people called ‘Team Talent’ – are running a charity talent show at Harlington young people’s centre, Pinkwell Lane, Hayes on Thursday March 29 at 7.30pm.
The project, aimed at giving young people the opportunity to learn new skills and challenge the popular stereotype that all young people are anti-social, was one of 37 youth projects in Hillingdon, developed & run by young people, which received more than £350,000 in 2006/07 thanks to the government’s youth opportunity and youth capital funding.
The members of Team Talent have got a great deal out of running the project having planned every element, from workshop subjects, co-ordinating and teaching workshops, as well as organising a week long team-building trip.
Team member, Sajed, said: “I am much more confident now and I’ve learnt how to work as part of a team.” Another team member, Eddie, said: “I understand about team work and co-operating now, and it’s kept me off the streets.”
Cabinet member for education & children’s services, Cllr David Simmonds, said: “Congratulations to Team Talent for getting through this tough competition and for running such a successful project. They are a great example of what young people can contribute to the community.”
There is now £350,000 of youth opportunity and youth capital funding available for 2007/08 which young people are invited to bid for. Young people, either individually or part of a group, aged 13 to 19 who have a great idea that will benefit the local community and other young people can apply for the funds. Contact Jenny Glen or Janet Jennings on 01895 277816 for more information and an application pack.
