Young Voices That Matter: Race, Identity & Education
About this Event
Over the past year, young people of African heritage, alongside parents and community voices, have been leading powerful conversations and research on race, racism, identity, and education. Through this work, they have shared lived experiences, explored their sense of identity, and highlighted the realities they face within school and society.
This Dissemination Event marks a significant moment to share their insights, celebrate their contributions, and bring communities together to reflect, learn, and drive change.
We are bringing together our young people and their parents who took part in the Research project on Race, Racism and Education in collaboration with York St John University and Liverpool Hope University, as well as community leaders, councillors, educators, and stakeholders to hear directly from young people and engage in meaningful dialogue that will shape more inclusive and supportive environments.
Researchers from the York St Johns University will disseminate the findings of the research, sharing key insights and outcomes with communities, stakeholders, and wider audiences.
Read about the research project here:-
What to Expect
- Research Findings and Outcome - hear directly from researchers on issues pertaining on race and racism and how it impacts young people from African descent as well as recommendations for parents, schools, civic leaders and communities.
- Young People’s Voices – hear directly from those at the heart of the research
- Keynote Speech – reflections on race, identity, and education
- Group Discussions – space for shared learning and dialogue
- Cultural Toolkit Launch – practical resources for parents, schools, and communities
- Young People’s Performance – creative expression of lived experiences
- Food & Networking – connect with community and stakeholders
Special Guest :- The Lord Mayor of Leeds
Date:- 27th June 2026
Time:- 11am - 3pm ( doors open by 10:30am). Please be seated by 11am
Who Should Attend
- Parents and carers
- Community leaders and organisations
- Councillors and policymakers
- Educators and youth practitioners
- Anyone passionate about equity, identity, and young people’s wellbeing
Why Attend
This event is more than a presentation — it is a platform for youth voice, community insight, and collective action. The findings shared will help inform future programmes, influence practice, and contribute to building more inclusive educational experiences for young people of African heritage.
Register Now
Spaces are limited. Be part of this important conversation and support the voices of young people driving change.
👉 Register now to attend the dissemination event.
How to get to the venue
👉 Please see our Find Us page for more information on how to get to the Centre - by Bus, Car Parking and by Train
Agenda
🕑: 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Arrival and Registration
Info: Please arrive early to take part in the performance
🕑: 11:00 AM - 11:45 AM
Young People's performance / cultural performance
Host: Temi O
Info: A powerful showcase of dignity, belonging, and young voices through poetry, artistic expression, music, and spoken word—celebrating creativity, identity, and confidence in our young people. This event marks the culmination of an important youth-led research project on race, racism, identity, and education, and it will be a significant moment for the young people involved to share their voices and contributions with community leaders, stakeholders, and partners.
🕑: 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
Buffet Lunch and Networking Opportunities
Info: A powerful showcase of dignity, belonging, and young voices through poetry, artistic expression, music, and spoken word—celebrating creativity, identity, and confidence in our young people.
🕑: 12:30 PM - 12:45 PM
Welcome & Overview of the Research Project and Findings
Host: Afrikindness Research Team
Info: A detailed overview of the Research Project
🕑: 12:45 PM - 01:30 PM
Presentation of the Project Findings and potential implications
Host: Afrikindness Research Team
🕑: 01:30 PM - 01:35 PM
Address by the Lord Mayor of Leeds
Host: Lord Mayor of Leeds
🕑: 01:35 PM - 01:45 PM
Formal Launch of Cultural Toolkit
Host: Lord Mayor of Leeds
Info: Launch of the Afrikindness Cultural Toolkit, developed from the outcomes of the research project to support parents, carers, young people, and families in fostering positive conversations around identity, culture, belonging, and inclusion. Photographs with the Lord Mayor of Leeds and other dignitaries.
🕑: 01:45 PM - 02:15 PM
Discussion Groups
Host: Dr Grace Okoro
Info: Participants will take part in facilitated discussion groups to reflect on the research findings, share perspectives, and explore key themes around race, identity, and education.
🕑: 02:15 PM - 02:30 PM
Plenary Feedback
Info: Plenary feedback session where groups will share their reflections and recommendations with the wider audience.
🕑: 02:30 PM - 02:45 PM
Closing Remarks and depart
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00
