On the 4th of June, we hosted our first Changemakers event at Caxton!
Our Changemakers for Social Action project, led by one of our youth workers, Sarah, has brought together Caxton members over the past year to explore how they can use their voice to change the world.
The Changemakers met every Monday, working closely with Sarah and people from a range of different backgrounds to explore issues affecting their communities. Through these collaborative sessions, they developed their manifesto by drawing on research and their own lived experiences. One young person explained, “I got involved in Changemakers because I didn’t know about politics and protest and wanted to learn about these things.” The event introduced these ideas into public view and opened discussion for potential action.
** Read their manifesto here **
Four of our young people shared how Caxton has influenced their experiences, offering personal reflections. We were proud to see them address an audience and speak so openly. As one Changemaker put it, “I’ve become more confident at expressing myself and taking on leadership roles.” Another reflected, “Without Caxton, my life would be different. I would be less confident and have low self-esteem, and struggle more with my communication skills.”
The wider Changemakers group displayed two collaborative artworks: Protest City and Protest World. These pieces call for more inclusive spaces where learning disabled, autistic, and neurodivergent young people can thrive. They also gave a visual sense of the group’s hopes for a future shaped with them, not simply for them.
The event was a great success, bringing together a wide range of people to hear from our Changemakers. We were delighted to welcome guests from across the community, including the Lord Mayor of Westminster, Karen Scarborough. Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the event such a positive and inspiring occasion.
This is just the beginning. The Changemakers have shown what is possible when young people are trusted to lead. As one young person said, “Changemakers has taught me that my voice matters.” We are excited to support them as they turn their ideas and research into meaningful action.
