Mini Ravi, Bright Futures programme lead, writes:
In September, Gypsy and Traveller community members came to LGT for a two-day Bright Futures training course which allowed us to connect, share, and learn together.
The course, run by the organisation StreetGames, focused on mentoring young people in community settings. As far as we know, this is the first time Gypsy and Traveller community members in London have come together to develop knowledge and skills in understanding and supporting young people.
There were nine participants, including Bright Futures team members, professionals with experience in delivering skills workshops for young people, and people with extensive experience working with young people in local authority, academic, research and advocacy contexts.
Over two days we talked about building trust with young people and understanding behaviour, basic needs, values and perspectives. We looked at a simple practical approach to having supportive mentoring conversations. The sessions were relaxed and interactive, and everyone brought their own stories and ideas.
The feedback from participants was very positive:
“It was interesting to learn how young peoples’ minds work!”
“I learnt some interesting approaches to understanding and engaging with young people in a supportive way. The mix of theory with lots of practical activities to discuss, share, and learn from others was very useful.”
“It was very reassuring to see such positivity and enthusiasm. Opportunities to get together and network like this are important and help support the development of young women who will ensure our communities have their voices heard.”
LGT has always believed that community involvement, with community members as mentors and support, is invaluable and makes for a richer programme. That’s why this training is significant to us. Mentoring, as we see it, is a trusted relationship rooted in a young person’s own hopes. Learning alongside each other at the event meant everyone could share what they already knew, pick up new tools and leave with a common approach. It also helped us build something bigger than one training course: a community of people with collective knowledge to draw on.
A big thank you to everyone who joined us, and to StreetGames for delivering such a warm and practical course. We’re keen to keep the connections going. Do you have ideas for activities which would bring together people, skills and learning with the aim of supporting young people? If you have suggestions or would like to be part of the conversation, we’d love to hear from you youth@londongandt.org.uk
- Bright Futures supports young people aged 15 to 25 to prepare for a world that is changing fast. The best thing we can do is learn together, listen, and try to understand how young people see the world. That way we can offer steady, consistent support and the tools young people need to become who they want to be with pride and confidence. Find out more
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