Introduction to the Event
Young people are being asked how they can make their city better as part of a new music, dance, and podcast festival. The event, which takes place on August 7 at DanceEast in Ipswich, follows a series of popup chat shows staged in empty shops and focused on the mental health of men. Filmmaker Sarah Tieck, who is involved in the project, said: "We have no answers, but we are looking for the questions of young people about what Ipswich could do better for them. Why don’t they come to the city?"
The Purpose of the Event
The event includes live music and dance performances as well as a panel discussion with questions from young people between the ages of 18 and 25 about what they want to see in the city. The event is being recorded and shared on social media. Raph Adom, one of the organizers, told BBC Radio Suffolk: "We are grown up and forget how it is to be a teenager. Most times they just want to hang around. At this point, they don’t even want a purpose, they just want to hang out and let everything depend." He added: "So I want the elders of a community to understand that it is okay for young people to be young people, even if they are on a place on their phones, they do not demonize them."
The Importance of Listening to Young Voices
Sarah Tieck, who grew up in Shotley Gate, said: "I wish I knew more what was happening in the city [Ipswich] when I was actually able to get involved because I was a bit of afraid to go to the city as a teenager." She remembered: "I was 13 and got on the bus for the first time, but I only went to McDonald’s and only sat on the city cries and things, you know." Tieck believes that Ipswich is one of the places where so much happens, but it does not hit her in the face, it is not advertised. She added: "It is not even advertised to the city’s various advice, let alone the outdoor areas like Shotley."
Let Young Voices be Heard
There are other options for young people to share their views in Suffolk. The #IWill movement has organized hackathon events in Ipswich for 10- to 21-year-olds as part of the commitment work through the charity organization Volunteering Matters. There is also the Suffolk Youth Forum, which is part of the child and youth services in Suffolk County Council. Additionally, the East Suffolk Council has a Youth Voice program, and the group Community Hub Ipswich (Chip) has conducted informal youth forums. These initiatives provide young people with a platform to express their opinions and contribute to the development of their community.
Getting Involved
The event on August 7 is an opportunity for young people to make their voices heard and shape the future of Ipswich. By attending the festival and participating in the panel discussion, young people can share their ideas and perspectives on what they want to see in the city. The event is also a chance for community leaders and elders to listen to the concerns and aspirations of young people and work together to create a better future for all. By listening to young voices and involving them in the decision-making process, Ipswich can become a more vibrant and inclusive city that meets the needs of all its citizens.
