The idea
Curate Your Genius (CYG) helps young people uncover their strengths and use creativity as a pathway to purpose and wellbeing.
Through our Finding Purpose programme, participants aged 13–19 (and up to 25 with additional needs) take part in a 6-week journey of reflection, creativity and connection.
Each session combines storytelling, mentoring and hands-on creative exploration around questions like:
• Who am I?
• What matters to me?
• How can I use my voice to create change?
Participants develop confidence, communication and self-leadership skills — and co-create digital and artistic outputs such as short films, zines or exhibitions that share their stories with the wider community.
The project celebrates everyday genius, uplifts youth voices and builds bridges between young people, their families and local changemakers.
What we'll deliver
- A 6-week creative development journey for young people aged 13–19 (and up to 25 with additional needs)
- Weekly interactive workshops combining creativity, reflection and storytelling
- Mentoring sessions that build confidence, communication and self-leadership
- A set of co-created creative outputs – such as short films, poetry, podcasts, artwork or zines
- A public showcase or exhibition where participants share their stories with their community
- A digital highlight reel capturing the journey and celebrating their growth
- Visible outcomes: young people leading, performing and expressing their voices with pride
Why it's a great idea
Finding Purpose helps young people uncover who they are, what matters to them, and how they can use their voice to make a difference. Many feel disconnected or unsure about their future — this project gives them space to reflect, create and grow. Through storytelling, mentoring and creative workshops, participants build confidence, resilience and a stronger sense of purpose. They learn communication and teamwork skills that support their wellbeing, education and employment pathways. The project also strengthens community connections by showcasing youth stories that inspire pride, understanding and hope. When young people find purpose, they don’t just change their own lives — they uplift the people around them too.
Steps to get it done
- Recruitment: Promote the opportunity and register up to 15 young participants.
- Programme Launch: Deliver an introductory session to set goals, build trust and outline the creative journey.
- Mentoring & Skill-Building: Provide one-to-one or small-group mentoring to support confidence and project development.
- Production Phase: Co-create creative outputs such as films, artwork, podcasts or poetry collections.
- Showcase Event: Host a public exhibition or performance where participants share their work with the community.
- Evaluation & Next Steps: Gather feedback, celebrate achievements & explore follow-on opportunities.
