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Leeds- 2026
Afrikindness empowers the next generation of changemakers through leadership, mental health and civic engagement.
Afrikindness was proud to support a group of young people from across Leeds to attend the Youth Conference organised by the Manju Shahul-Hameed Foundation For Mental Health as part of the National Commission for Mental Health – an inspiring event that brought together young leaders, professionals, community organisations and decision-makers to discuss the issues that matter most to young people today.
The conference provided an invaluable opportunity for young people to engage in meaningful conversations around mental health, education, careers, leadership, equality, community safety and the future of their city. Throughout the day, participants took part in interactive workshops, panel discussions and networking sessions designed to amplify youth voices and encourage active citizenship.
Our young people had the privilege of hearing from a range of influential speakers, including including Richard Burgon MP, Cllr Dr Manju Shahul-Hameed, Founder Manju Shahul-Hameed Foundation For Mental Health & Former Mayor of Croydon, Cllr Salma Arif, Jermaine Benjamin (Boost Talent ltd), Anuradha Menon (Consultant Liaison Psychiatrist at Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust ) and Heather W. (Chief Superintendent West Yorkshire Violence Reduction Partnership), who shared their personal journeys, leadership experiences and practical advice for making a positive impact within their communities.
One of the highlights of the day was seeing our young people confidently participate in discussions, ask insightful questions and contribute their own ideas during the syndicate sessions. They explored real-life challenges affecting young people and worked collaboratively to identify solutions that could help create stronger, healthier and more inclusive communities.
At Afrikindness, we believe that every young person deserves opportunities to develop their confidence, leadership skills and aspirations. Experiences such as the Youth Conference help young people recognise that their voices matter and that they have an important role to play in shaping the future.
Speaking after the event, Bunmi Owolabi said:
“When young people are given opportunities to be heard, equipped and inspired, they begin to see themselves as leaders and changemakers. The Youth Conference reminded our young people that they belong in conversations that shape their communities and that their ideas have the power to influence positive change. We were delighted to bring 11 young people from our community to this inspiring event.“
The conference aligns closely with Afrikindness’ mission to empower children and young people through education, leadership development, positive identity, social and emotional learning, and community engagement.
Over the course of the year, participants developed far more than research skills.
They built confidence.
They strengthened their communication and leadership abilities.
They learned how to ask meaningful questions, listen with empathy, analyse information, and present their ideas to wider audiences.
Many of the young people involved are from communities that are often underrepresented in research and decision-making. Through this project, they discovered that their voices matter and that their lived experiences can influence practice, policy, and community understanding.
Beyond contributing to an important body of research, the project provided participants with invaluable lifelong skills. Young people developed confidence in public speaking, interviewing, communication, teamwork, leadership, critical thinking and presentation skills. They gained first-hand experience of academic research, learned how evidence can influence policy and practice, and discovered the power of using their voices to create positive change within their communities.
The project culminated in a vibrant Research Dissemination Event, bringing together young people, parents, educators, researchers, community organisations, local authority representatives and civic leaders to celebrate the achievements of the young people and share the project’s findings.
As part of our ongoing commitment to youth development, Afrikindness continues to provide programmes that inspire young people to become confident leaders, active citizens and compassionate members of society. These include our Teens Academy, youth leadership initiatives, educational visits, volunteering opportunities, employability workshops and civic engagement programmes.
We would like to thank Cllr Dr Manju Shahul-Hameed, Founder Manju Shahul-Hameed Foundation For Mental Health & Former Mayor of Croydon for creating an engaging and empowering event, and we congratulate every young person who participated with enthusiasm, confidence and a willingness to learn.
The future is bright—and we are proud to walk alongside the next generation as they discover their potential and lead with purpose.
Interested in joining our Teens Academy or future youth leadership opportunities?
Visit https://afrikindness.org/child-young-person/
or follow us on social media to stay updated on upcoming events and programmes.
