In this blog post, Ladajah, Youth Voice Ambassador for the Future Voices Group (2022-24) reflects on the group’s final project – Future Focused – a zine that evocatively conveys their lived experiences to highlight the realities young people face when seeking employment.
As I reflect on our zine “Future Focused,” I’m filled with a mix of pride, nostalgia, and hope. This vibrant collection of thoughts, experiences, and creative expressions represents far more than just ink on paper – it’s the culmination of our journey as the Future Voices Group.
A Canvas for Our Voices
When we first decided to create this zine, I was unsure what to expect. How could we distil all our discussions, research, and personal experiences into a single publication? As we started collaborating, I realised this wasn’t just about presenting facts and figures. It was about creating a space where our voices could truly shine in a way that resonates with us and our audience.
Each page of “Future Focused” tells a story. From stark statistics on ethnic disparities in employment to heartfelt poems about regional inequalities, every element reflects a piece of our collective experience. Our long discussions about which issues to highlight, how to present them, and what message we wanted to convey weren’t always easy, but the process brought us closer as a group and strengthened our resolve to make a difference.
Creativity Meets Advocacy
One of the aspects I’m most proud of is how we managed to blend creativity with facts. Infographics on disability employment rates sit alongside powerful artwork depicting the struggles of job hunting. Personal anecdotes are interwoven with research findings from the Youth Futures Foundation. This mix of approaches makes our zine not just informative but also deeply personal and engaging.
A Mirror to Our Growth
Creating “Future Focused” wasn’t just about producing a publication; it was a journey of personal growth for all of us. I’ve seen my fellow group members grow in confidence, develop new skills, and find their voices as advocates throughout our two years at YFF. This project allowed us to encapsulate our development, advocacy, and thoughts into a legacy piece of work.
The moment we presented our work to the Youth Futures Foundation’s Senior Leadership Team was unforgettable. Standing there, showcasing our zine, I felt a sense of empowerment. It was a moment that made me realise the true impact of our work – we weren’t just participants in a program; we were changemakers with valuable insights to share.
Our Legacy and Looking Forward
As our time with the Future Voices Group comes to an end, “Future Focused” stands as our legacy. It’s a testament to what young people can achieve when given the platform and support to express themselves. More than that, it’s a call to action – a vibrant, youth-led perspective on the challenges facing young job seekers today.
I hope our zine will continue to inspire and inform long after we’ve moved on. That it will remind decision-makers to consider young people’s real, lived experiences when shaping policies and programs. And most of all, I hope it will encourage other young people to raise their voices and advocate for change.
Creating “Future Focused” has been an unforgettable experience. Throughout my time on the FVG, I have honed my advocacy skills and connected with an incredible group of peers. As I look to the future, I carry with me the lessons learned, the friendships forged, and the unwavering belief that young voices have the power to create meaningful change.
Read the zine here.
