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Young people from Southwick Neighbourhood Youth Project took part in Sunderland Youth Action Unlocked with a simple goal: to bring their community together. Through planning and delivering a colour run event and a park clean up, the group created an event that encouraged local people, families and organisations to connect while promoting a cleaner and more welcoming community space. 

When unexpected changes meant their original KEY+ project could no longer go ahead, The Hairy Dogz refused to let the setback stop them. Instead, they worked together to plan an exciting trip to Keswick in the Lake District, organising activities, transport and budgeting as a team. Along the way, they developed confidence, independence and problem-solving skills.Their journey is a fantastic example of resilience, teamwork and making the most of new opportunities.

As part of Sunderland Youth Action Unlocked, young people from Washington Youth Council came together to transform an outdoor space into a communal garden for their local community. Designed to help young people feel more connected, supported and included, the project features plants, herbs, seating and sensory elements.

The Duck Tilters created 'Shed Not a Shed' - a community bike repair space designed to help local people fix and maintain their bikes, particularly those who may not be able to afford repairs. The group worked together to plan and build the space developing communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills along the way.

Year 7 students from McDonaldsLovers_6767 took part in the KEY+ Challenge, using their project to inspire a love of reading by visiting Toner Avenue Primary School and reading to the younger pupils. 

Students at King James I Academy used their Stage 1 KEY+ project to design experiences that strengthened teamwork, communication and confidence while supporting their Media Studies learning. One group, The Escape Artists, visited escape rooms in Darlington to develop problem-solving skills and explore media concepts such as set design, props and costume, while Gourmet Gurus organised a large group restaurant experience that challenged them to manage budgeting, planning and decision-making for their peers.

The Key Awards aren't far away and we can't wait to celebrate with you on the night! Our judging panel worked hard to whittle down our winners and you can see our shortlisted nominees here...

Young people across the North East are leading powerful social action projects through the KEY+ Challenge, creating real change in their communities while developing confidence, leadership and teamwork skills. This Power of Youth Day, we’re celebrating the creativity, passion and determination of young people who are tackling important issues, bringing people together and making a lasting impact through youth-led action.

The Giving Tree Crew at NUCASTLE came together through KEY+ with a shared goal: to create a project that would benefit both their community and the environment. Inspired by a passion for improving local green spaces, the group decided to plant fruit trees that will grow for years to come, leaving their legacy.

KEY+ Group, Around the World, set out to bring their community closer together by celebrating diversity and encouraging understanding between different cultures. Through their project, the group explored countries and traditions from around the world, using food, music, quizzes and creative activities to challenge stereotypes and celebrate diversity.

Terry's Cucumber Dinosaur Squad delivered a KEY+ social action project in South Tyneside focused on improving awareness of mental health support for young people aged 11-25. After recognising that many of them had previously been unaware of available services, the group organised a community event bringing together 20 local support organisations and benefitting 100 community members.

The Four G's took on the KEY+ Challenge by planning an exciting and active Stage 1 project. From researching activities and managing their budget to presenting their ideas to panel, the group developed valuable skills in teamwork, communication, problem-solving and confidence. Read more about their Stage 1 project here!