Southend Youth Council raise awareness of climate change through art competition

January 26, 2023

Southend Youth Council are raising awareness about climate change and environmental issues thanks to an art competition aimed at young people.

Young people up to the age of 18 were invited to create a piece of art that communicates the importance of tackling climate change and over 80 entries were submitted by young people aged 5 to 18 (Key Stages 1 to 5).

A judging panel of Southend Youth Council members then gathered at the Southend Climate Hub in The Victoria Centre to review the amazing artwork and winners were selected from each Key Stage.

The winning artwork was then displayed at the ‘S for Southend' exhibition at the Focal Point Gallery in Southend, an inspiring new community exhibition showcasing artwork made by local residents and artists of all ages.

All competition winners and their families were invited to a private viewing hosted by Southend Youth Council members on 21 January and winners were congratulated and presented with certificates. The event included spoken word poetry on the theme of climate action, written and performed by local poet and youth councillor, Angelina Klein.

Hannah Godfrey, Southend Youth Council member who led the art competition, said: “I’m really pleased with how the exhibition has turned out, it’s such a good opportunity to showcase local talent amongst the younger generation. I hope they realise the impact of their work.”

Cllr Carole Mulroney, cabinet member for environment, culture and tourism, added: “Everyone that submitted artwork for this competition has shown their commitment to the cause of combatting climate change and should be very proud of their achievements in helping to raise awareness of the effects of climate change though their art.

“Southend Youth Council has shown itself to be a leader in this field in Southend by organising such a professional competition that tackles this hugely important issue. After all it is the young people who will feel the lasting effects of issues with our environment and their ideas and views will help not only give them, but all generations, a better understanding of the issues we face in improving our local and global environment.”

The Southend Youth Council is for young people aged 11-18 (up to 25 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) to have a say over how their city is run. The Council meets monthly to discuss the issues that affect young people in Southend, with meetings planned and chaired by the Youth Mayor and Deputy Youth Mayor. The Member of Youth Parliament represents the Youth Council on a National level.

For more information about Southend Youth Council, please visit the Southend Youth Council website.