News / Youth Homelessness
City’s youth ambassadors to host event addressing ‘pressing’ youth homelessness
The Babbasa Youth Ambassadors, now known as Youth Rise, are set to host an event aimed at raising awareness and inspiring action around the growing issue of youth homelessness.
The event, titled Speak Up, will take place on Saturday, December 7 at The Station, located at Silver Street near Broadmead.
Designed to engage the community and galvanise support, Speak Up promises to be an impactful gathering that will spotlight the challenges faced by homeless young people.
The primary goal of Speak Up is to highlight the struggles of homeless youth while sparking meaningful conversations about the solutions needed to address this escalating crisis.
The figures published by the youth homeless charity Centrepoint paints an alarming picture for the region: some 11,300 young people from South West are identified as homeless.
The event will feature a blend of performative arts, guest speakers, and panel discussions, each designed to give voice to the experiences of young people affected by homelessness.
Funds raised during the event will support Caring in Bristol, a charity that works to provide essential services and support to homeless individuals, particularly young people. The event aims not only to educate but also to raise vital funds for organisations that offer critical assistance to youth in need.
Speak Up will include several key elements designed to engage attendees and encourage community participation:
Welcome Speech & Short Talks: Inspirational talks will address the challenges of youth homelessness and the impact of programs like Babbasa’s Challenge Programme, which supports young people in overcoming social barriers.
Guest Speakers & Panel Discussion: A group of experts, advocates, and young people will discuss solutions to youth homelessness, share insights, and explore ways to support at-risk youth.
Slam Poetry: Powerful spoken word performances by young artists will offer a creative perspective on the issue of homelessness, highlighting the resilience and voices of the youth affected.
Global Cuisine Dinner & Networking: A special dinner will celebrate world cuisines and provide a space for attendees to connect, share ideas, and continue conversations about the event’s themes.
Four of the youth ambassadors at Youth Rise (clockwise) Kiera Bryant, Jasaulla Khan (Jaza), Laurel Beckford and Imogen Blackmore – photo: Babbasa
While the event is geared towards young people aged 16-30, particularly those from marginalised or lower-income backgrounds, it is open to all members of the community.
Youth ambassadors Evie Hilier, Jamelia Nelson and Oluomachuku Unumadu (Oluoma) – photo: Babbasa
Speak Up has also called upon the support of local charities, businesses, and organisations interested in exploring ways to combat youth homelessness and support the next generation.
“Supporting Speak Up is not just about funding an event—it’s about showing a commitment to social justice and making a real difference in the lives of vulnerable youth,” said a representative from Youth Rise.
All proceeds from the event, including the “donate-what-you-can” entrance fee and proceeds from merchandise sales, will go directly to Caring in Bristol.
To learn more about Speak Up, visit www.babbasa.com/speak-up.com
Main photo: Khali Ackford / KōLAB Studios/ Caring in Bristol
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