HIV, EDI, ASB and Skills Builder Day 26'
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
HIV, EDI, ASB and Skills Building in Cumbria
Back in March, we brought together over 400 young people at Energy Coast UTC for a full-day experience focused on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, awareness, and skills building. The event created a safe, structured space where young people could learn, express themselves, and be heard.
Creating change through action.
The Event – 18th March 2026
The day ran from 8:45am to 4:00pm and centred around a series of interactive workshop rotations designed to educate, empower, and inspire.
Young people took part in sessions covering HIV awareness, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, skills development, and ASB Prevention. Each workshop created space for open conversation, learning, and personal growth.
Eyes Open CIC delivered HIV awareness sessions, helping to break stigma and build understanding.
NEAD and Proud and Diverse Cumbria shared their journey in partnership and led discussions around identity, inclusion, and community. We also hosted talks around Anti Social Behaviour, led by industry professionals. This included talks about our newest project, YAZ, coming in May.
Assa Colours, alongside partners, introduced students to podcasting and communication skills, giving them a platform to express themselves.
A key part of the day focused on youth voice, where students shared their ideas on what they want to see in their local area. This ensured their views are not only heard, but taken forward.
In the afternoon, Assa Colours brought a fully equipped podcast studio into the UTC. Young people stepped into the role of interviewer and presenter, recording their own conversations and building confidence in a professional setting.
The purpose was clear.
Give young people a voice.
Build confidence.
Create opportunity.
The Impact
The response from young people was immediate and powerful. Students engaged openly in conversations, asked questions, and shared their experiences with confidence.
We also heard directly from those involved. Sophia Pettit described the day as “innovative,” highlighting how engaging and different the experience felt. Callum Kelly added, “It’s great to see there are actually people in this area that care about us young people.” Their feedback reflects the importance of creating spaces where young people feel supported, valued, and heard.
Throughout the day, there was a noticeable shift. Young people who started quietly grew in confidence, stepping forward to speak, take part, and lead discussions. The podcast sessions were a standout moment, with many students taking part in their first ever recorded interview.
The impact extended beyond the day itself. Over 400 young people experienced a structured, inclusive environment where they felt heard and valued. Many left with increased confidence, new skills, and a stronger understanding of themselves and others.
Opportunities created on the day will continue, with young people now able to launch their own fully funded podcasts over the next year.
This event strengthened connections between young people, education, and community organisations. It reinforced a clear message, their voice matters, and their future matters.
