Future Voices – Summer Sessions Begin
By Inclusive Change At Work CIC

Today we welcomed our first group of Future Voices participants – a brilliant group of young people ready to share ideas, build skills and shape a podcast series that reflects their stories, experiences, and hopes for the future.

We started with introductions, discovering a shared love of drum and bass, a healthy appreciation for One Direction, and a big shoutout to the Lionesses.

From the beginning, it was clear that each person had their own reason for being here. Some wanted their voice to be heard. Others were keen to build experience, try something new, or gain skills that might support future study or work. There was also plenty of curiosity about how podcasts are made and what it takes to create something meaningful.

That curiosity shaped the day. We explored what makes a good podcast – from structure and style to the kinds of stories that stay with you. Ideas started to flow, from potential interview topics to the questions we’d want to ask and the messages we want to share.

Between bursts of planning and discussion, there was time for a lively round of Just Dance, the perfect reminder that creativity doesn't always sit still.

We then tested the podcast equipment, getting hands-on with microphones, recorders and headphones. There were a few nerves about hearing our own voices, but those quickly turned into laughter, especially when trying to say Emersons Green on repeat! It wasn’t long before we were experimenting with sound and already thinking ahead to interviews.

To end the day, we looked at how we’ll edit recordings and even captured a short snippet to begin the series.

This is just the start. Over the next few weeks, this group will co-create a youth-led podcast from scratch, shaping the concept, researching the stories, recording the conversations, and producing the final episodes.

What will the series sound like? That’s entirely up to them. And we can’t wait to hear it.

Stay tuned, the voices of tomorrow are speaking up today.