The Future Is Ours Symposium - 8th May
What if creativity is the missing link in mental health support?
The Future is Ours is a groundbreaking, interactive symposium exploring the powerful role of the arts in supporting young people’s mental health.
8th May, day 1 of the event brings together young people, creative practitioners, mental health professionals, educators, and policymakers to reimagine how we shape creative spaces and mental health support for young people.
Expect to start powerful discussions, hands-on workshops, and a showcase of young creative talent—all focused on building a more inclusive, accessible, and impactful creative support system for young people in Greater Manchester.
Start the day with a welcome session facilitated by 42nd Street, and expect to explore young people’s mental health journeys in Greater Manchester through the lens of creativity.
There will be powerful table-discussions around real-life case studies with a focus on identifying gaps in our support services, possible solutions and opportunities to better collaborate, a creative showcase and workshops co-created by young people with lived experience.
The day will close with reflections on how we can shape the next chapter in expanding creative spaces and increase connectivity throughout Greater Manchester to strengthen support for young people’s mental health and wellbeing, and a creative finale delivered by young people.
Who Should Attend?
🎭 Creative Practitioners, Artists & Arts Organisations – Discover ways to make arts spaces more inclusive and supportive for young people’s mental health.
🧑🏫 Educators & Youth Workers – Explore how creativity can be used to empower young people in educational and community settings.
💡 Mental Health Professionals & Policymakers – Gain insights into the role of creativity in mental health interventions and youth engagement.
