Are you passionate about using creative storytelling to advocate for mental health within the Black community?

Do you want to develop the skills needed to campaign for social change at both local and national levels?

Join the Community Networks Programme and connect with a supportive network of young changemakers, gain priority access to YoungMinds' activist programmes, and enjoy exciting rewards, including goody bags, prizes, and a £150 voucher from JD Sports upon completion.

We can also offer subsidised travel, to ensure this opportunity is accessible to everyone.

Workshops will take place every Thursday from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, beginning on September 19, 2024, and concluding on October 24, 2024.

Each session focuses on different aspects of storytelling, activism, and well-being, from building relationships and exploring creative arts as tools for social change to defining documentary visions, sharing personal stories, and discussing the education system.

After the workshops, there will be two additional exhibition planning sessions on November 7 and November 14, 2024, leading up to the final exhibition on December 12, 2024.

FAQ's

What is the Community Networks Programme?

The Community Networks Programme is an initiative designed to use the power of creative storytelling for mental health advocacy within the black community. Through a series of workshops and an exhibition, participants will explore how the creative arts can be used as a tool for social change.

Who can participate in the workshops?

The workshops are open to young black and mixed race people aged 16 - 24 who are interested in storytelling, activism, and using creative arts as a medium for social change.

No prior experience is necessary, and all levels of experience are welcome.

What are the dates and times for the workshops?

All workshops are held from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on the following dates:

Workshop 1 (19/09/2024): Introductions, relationship building, confidence in storytelling, and exploring the creative arts as a tool for activism.
Workshop 2 (26/09/2024): Vision statement and key messages for the documentary, and Vision Board Creation with filmmaker Tayyib.
Workshop 3 (03/10/2024): "Our Wellbeing" - Focus on self-care and community care.
Workshop 4 (10/10/2024): "Our World" - Understanding the people and places that surround us.
Workshop 5 (17/10/2024): "Our Stories" - Exploring the life and times of the creators, facilitated by our ambassador, Shocka.
Workshop 6 (24/10/2024): "Our Power" - Discussing the education system and exploring ways to bring about change.

Exhibition planning and date

Exhibition Planning Workshop 1: 07/11/2024
Exhibition Planning Workshop 2: 14/11/2024
Exhibition Date: 12/12/2024

Who will be involved in creating the exhibition?

This exhibition will showcase the work produced during the workshops, highlighting the stories, visions, and activism of the participants.

The exhibition will be curated and created by the participants of our workshops, who will bring their stories, visions, and activism to life. They will be guided by our team of experienced facilitators and mentors, ensuring that their perspectives on social change are effectively showcased. This collaborative effort will reflect the diverse talents and voices of young creators committed to making a difference.

How can I access subsidised travel

We believe in making this programme accessible to everyone, regardless of financial circumstances. Once you've been accepted onto the programme, please contact nathalie@Mentivity.org

How can I sign up?

To sign up, register here, or reach out directly to Dawite at dawite.mosisa@youngminds.org.uk or Nats at nathalie@Mentivity.com Spaces may be limited, so early registration is encouraged.

What are the Perks

Community Building: Connect with a supportive network of young changemakers.
Fast-Track Opportunities: Get priority access to YoungMinds' activist programmes.
Rewards: Enjoy goody bags, prizes, and a £150 voucher from JD Sports upon completion.

Meet Our Ambassador

We are thrilled to have Shocka as our ambassador for the Community Networks Programme. A dynamic speaker, poet, rap artist, and mental health advocate, Shocka brings a unique and powerful voice to our initiative.

Shocka’s journey is one of resilience and unwavering determination. His story, which has inspired many, is highlighted in ITV’s hit documentary Black Boys Can Cry and further explored in his recently published memoir, A Section Of My Life. Through his work, Shocka continues to break down barriers and challenge stigmas surrounding mental health, particularly within the Black community.

His involvement in our programme adds an invaluable layer of insight and inspiration, and we are honoured to have him on board. Shocka's presence will undoubtedly enrich the experience for all participants, encouraging them to find and express their own voices through creative arts and storytelling.

Venue

Mentivity House

Got Questions?

Contact Dawite at dawite.mosisa@youngminds.org.uk or on 07494306312 or Nats at nathalie@Mentivity.org

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