Project aims to give youth a voice
The Leeds Muslim Youth Forum (LMYF), in partnership with the Hamara Healthy Living Centre, has embarked on a campaign to capture the voice of Young Muslims living in Leeds.
Five consultative workshops are being held across Leeds and have been developed with the needs and experiences of the young people in mind.
The project will enable young Muslims to discuss and explore issues affecting them with the aim that the tour will become a catalyst for future work with the Muslim youth.
Themes were identified through discussions in the LMYF, an initiative re-launched in June 2014 after its initial launch in 2005 after the tragic events of 7/7.
The LMYF is made up of a cohort of young people aged 18-25 aiming to tackle the negative image of young Muslims by actively engaging with communities.
Ten years on and the LMYF say there is an ever increasing need for young Muslims to have a voice, get involved in community life and help to change the media narrative and portrayal of Young Muslims to the wider society.
The aims and purpose of the workshops is to allow young people a safe space to discuss and explore issues affecting the Muslim youth including identity, discrimination, community cohesions, Islamic education and youth engagement.
After the five workshops are complete, a report will be produced for key stakeholders, statutory agencies and youth services to better inform them of the needs of Young Muslims.
42 young people have so far participated in the consultations that have taken place at the Hamara Centre and Leeds Makkah Masjid.
To get involved and have your say, young Muslims aged 16-35 are encouraged to attend the next Muslim Youth Speak workshop taking place at the Bangladesh Community Centre, Roundhay Road, Leeds on Saturday 11th April from 3pm-5pm.
