Testimonials from Young Identity members
Boy aged 18: ‘I was severely lacking in confidence before I joined Young Identity 3 years ago. I had been writing poetry for a few years but I never shared it. I attended a Young Identity writing workshop. The workshop facilitators, Shirley May and Ali Gadema, made me feel a part of the group and their encouragement gave me the confidence to share my work with the other young poets in the Young Identity workshop. This was a big step for me, and it was surprising that I had found the confidence soon after attending the workshop, to perform my poetry in front of a live audience for the first time. Young Identity helped me with my studies because with their support I began to develop creative writing skills that improved my literacy skills.’
Girl aged 18: ‘I love debating and writing about various events, issues and views. Also learning to perform poetry has improved my confidence, self-esteem and given me techniques to use for my drama classes and singing. On a social level, I have a whole new family at YI; we have fun and support each other. This group provides a vital space for young people to grow and express their views freely and productively. I have branched off into playwriting, short story writing and playback theatre through my connections with poetry.’
Girl aged 16: ‘Young Identity is now more than just a poetry group for me. The way they welcomed me and took me under their wing. It is because of them that I have gained faith in myself and my writing abilities; before I joined them I had no faith in my work what so ever. They also took their time to build my confidence so much so that I had enough to overcome my fear and perform in front of people. Y.I proves that young people DO want to make something of themselves and that negative stereotypes do not apply to all young people.’
Boy aged 15: ‘I have been a part of Young Identity for 3 years. When I started at Young Identity I was getting into trouble at school and not many people took the time to ask me about my interests and hobbies. When I went to my first Young Identity writing workshop, I told them that I had an interest in writing lyrics and that I liked Mcing. Young Identity gave me a platform for my work and taught me how to perform on stage as a part of a team. The writing workshops that Young Identity run gives me something to look forward to and my grades and behaviour at school is totally different because now I’m a part of something special.’
Girl aged 14: ‘Ihave always had an interest in words and playing around with words. I was invited to attend a Young Identity workshop and was blown away by their creative talent. I was taught practical skills to improve my writing skills and how to make my poetry effective.’
Boy aged 20: ‘Young Identity has inspired me and given me confidence in public speaking. I have made valuable friends for life and I believe that with YI I will go from strength to strength. I have gained more opportunities than I thought were possible. I have an active interest in politics and as a result of being a part of Young Identity I have had the opportunity to network with local MP’s and counsellors which will massively enhance my future prospects.’
Girl aged 17: ‘I wanted to knock out my school teachers because they were always telling me that I’m not gonna do anything with my life. What a load! Young Identity told me that I could channel all my thoughts and aggression into poetry and get it out of my system without making myself looking like a waste gyal!’
Girl aged 18: ‘Young Identity is absolutely inspirational. The first time I performed for Young Identity was at a residential home for the elderly. This was a part of their Christmas season entertainment and to see them enjoy our poetry was heart warming. It was brilliant to be a part of a project that bridged the gap between young people and older people and to give them an insight into what it’s like to be a young person. I love being a part of Young Identity because they care about the community around them and are committed to making a difference to society.’
Boy aged 18: ‘I’m a young father an I’ve experienced a hard life, I’ve taken everythin. My mum suffers with manic depression and I don’t know my dad. Coming to Young Identity has opened doors for me and has given me an opportunity to have a voice. I’m now back in college and got the confidence to perform at a dubstep night.’