We believe that young people should have a say in Element's future.

The Youth Voice programme ensures this happens and often gathers a Youth Board as part of a focus group to offer vital guidance and advice for our future. In previous years the Youth Board have also run other events, such as open mic nights.

Youth Voice is a space for young people aged 12-24 to have their voices heard. Not only here at Element but in wider society. 
Youth Voice is a space for young people to consult on Element projects, put forward their ideas and run social action projects. 

How can I get involved?

If you are interested in joining, get in touch with Jasmine:
DM us on Insta @elementsociety 
[email protected] 
0114 299 210 
07958141845

The Youth Board is always willing to be a focus group for any external groups and prides itself on being from a diverse range of backgrounds, so it can be a very useful test group. If you would like to hear what the group has to say about your project/ idea, feel free to drop an email to the email mentioned previously. We look forward to hearing from you.

Before … don’t say it … COVID … we said it … 

The Youth Board worked with Archer Project (a local homeless charity) to create care packages for the homeless of Sheffield. As well as helping the NCS team with recruitment by attending schools around Sheffield during lunchtimes and NCS icebreaker events at places like JUMP Sheffield and ICE Sheffield.

The Element Youth Board was 15 strong and was granted a small budget from Element Society annually. However, all their projects have come at zero cost, as any funds have come from fundraising events and being self-sufficient.

Success so far...

The Youth Board group has benefited and continues to benefit from Youth Voice as it builds their confidence talking in groups and communicating, in not just a professional environment but connecting to all members of society. A prime example of this was within our Christmas event, where the board handed out Christmas cards to the homeless of Sheffield. 3 board members volunteered - Xian, Haleema, and Zain, and despite at first being nervous approaching people they and many others, would normally walk past, they ended up talking with multiple people and it was clear to see their confidence grew. These moments are empowering for a young person and it gives them the belief that they can continue to help others on a daily basis with just a small deed, such as stopping and talking to the homeless.

When asked what the Youth Board means to them, some of the young people responded;

It’s made me more confident and I have met some good friends from it

Element listen to us and our voices are heard, we’re treated like adults which doesn't happen a lot

Unlike other charities  it makes me feel like I'm actually making a difference and will actually benefit me later on in life

It’s been great for networking, as a young entrepreneur I have had the opportunity to meet other entrepreneurs, such as Josh Babarinde who have offered me great business advice.