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Leeds, December 16, 2025
Leeds, UK — Young people taking part in Afrikindness’ Teens Academy recently participated in an interactive Teen Brain Workshop, gaining first-hand insight into how the brain works and how emotions, behaviour and decision-making are connected.
The session formed part of Module Two: Social and Emotional Learning, designed to support young people to thrive emotionally, socially and academically.
Delivered by Kate Hiley, PhD researcher, and the Yorkshire Brain Map Team from the University of Leeds, the workshop introduced teens to brain anatomy, neuroplasticity and the science behind emotions, stress and social connection. Researchers guided students through engaging discussions and practical activities, making complex neuroscience concepts accessible and relevant to everyday life.
Growth Mindset
The session began with a growth mindset video, encouraging young people to reflect on how choices, attitudes and mindset shape outcomes. Throughout the workshop, discussions explored emotional regulation, empathy and the importance of social relationships, reinforcing the role of self-awareness in positive decision-making.
The level of engagement was notable, with young people asking thoughtful questions on topics ranging from anxiety and emotional wellbeing to memory, brain development and dementia. The breadth of discussion highlighted the importance of creating learning spaces where young people feel empowered to explore their questions and build confidence in their voices.
Introduction to Neuroplasticity & EEG
The Yorkshire Brain Map team introduced the teens to neuroplasticity, helping them understand how the brain changes through learning and experience and why this knowledge is vital during adolescence, when the brain is still developing and highly adaptable.
A key highlight was the use of electroencephalography (EEG) devices, which record the brain’s electrical activity, commonly known as brain waves. Teens had the opportunity to observe their own brain activity in real time, seeing how their levels of excitement, focus and stress changed during different tasks. This hands-on experience helped them better understand how emotions and external pressures can influence behaviour and wellbeing.
The teens shared how exciting it was to use EEG technology to see their own brain activity, saying it helped them understand stress, focus and emotions in real time, with feedback highlighting how learning about the brain would support their schoolwork in biology, deepen understanding of conditions like dementia, and improve how they manage relationships, stress and emotional responses.
Teen Recognition & Reward
Afrikindness also acknowledged the support of the councillors – Councilor Luke Farley and Councillor Nkele Manaka, who attended the session and presented gift vouchers to young people in recognition of their achievements.
Awards were given to participants involved in youth-led community research on Race, Racism and Education, as well as for GCSEPod excellence and outstanding engagement during UK Parliament Week.
“Seeing my brain waves on the EEG helped me understand what happens in my brain when I’m stressed or focused — it made everything we learn in biology make sense.”
Teens 16yrs
“It was very interesting to learn about the different parts of the brain, how the scans were taken, as well as how our brain links to our emotions and personality.”
Teen 16yrs
“The workshop helped me understand how my brain connects to my emotions and relationships better, especially how stress affects my brain and how I can manage it.”
Teen 13yrs
The workshop was supported by funding from the Leeds City Council Community East and Inner North Committees, whose investment continues to enable opportunities for both individual and collective development.
Additional thanks were extended to the UK Parliament for educational resources, and to the Institute of Social Justice and York St John University for supporting Afrikindness’ youth-led research project, which actively engages young people in building power for systemic change.
Afrikindness extended its thanks to Kate Hiley and the Yorkshire Brain Map Team for delivering a high-quality, inspiring session that combined scientific rigour with practical relevance.
Through its Teens Academy programme, Afrikindness continues to equip young people with knowledge, skills and confidence — supporting positive behaviour, emotional wellbeing and informed participation in society.
