With an attendance of over 150 delegates, the fast-paced programme busted the myths surrounding youth employment by providing a platform for young people to share their experiences live on stage and entice those with the power to do so, to take action. Omari Thomas, former TMBC mentee, returned as host for the day and was joined on stage by TMBC Chair, Professor Ian Oaks; Kirsty McHugh, Chief Executive of Employment Related Services Association, Rose Rees, Training & Development Manager at the Midland Metro Alliance amongst others.

OD&V collaborated with TMBC on programme development in addition to operations & logistics management. The scene was set beautifully by Gazebo who performed a 20 minutes surprise sketch depicting a year in the life of a Talent Match mentee, before young people advocate, Jack Parsons (CEO, Big Youth Group), took to stage to share his vision for Young People in the UK and the steps he is taking in realising this. Conversations between TMBC young people were filled with emotional charge and left audiences searching for tissues! The potential for positive, fulfilling futures for all young people in the Black Country energised everyone present and ensured delegates left with a clear call to action message.

The event was delivered with the support of  OD&V partners: Quadrant Events AV & Production, Steve Pitt Graphic Design, Highfields Photography, Stone’s Throw Media