A group of young people from Stockport pitched to a panel of “dragons” who were presented with project ideas at Stockport Academy recently through ‘The Challenge Network’.
The young people had just completed an intense 3 weeks of personal and team challenges aimed at equipping them with the skills and experiences they need to make their mark.
Then, in teams, they had to come up with an entire campaign for a local issue they care about and present it to the Dragons to secure cash to get the campaign off the ground.
Commenting, Andrew Stunell MP said:
“The enthusiasm and skill shown by all the teams was truly impressive. It was great seeing so many young people filled with such passion and enthusiasm for a project they had developed together, to help benefit their local communities. I wish all the teams the best as they set out on the final stage of their quest.”
Helen Hughes, Programmes Associate at The Challenge Network, said:
“The Dragon’s offered fantastic feedback and suggestions to the groups and, after hard deliberation, awarded teams either the money they bid for or a small amount less.”
“A special thank you to Andrew Stunell who has offered teams additional support post pitch by using his excellent knowledge of the local area and partners and individuals within it that may be able to offer future support to the groups.”
Following their pitch to the Dragons the teams undertake the fourth and final section of the programme. They have four days over two weekends in September to deliver their campaign and three other community projects. The teams will need to use all the skills and experience they have gained over the summer to impact their community and convert their ideas into results.
After completing the programme participants join The Challenge Society, where they gain year round support and on-going opportunities for personal development and community impact.
To find out more about the Challenge Network visit – http://www.the-challenge.org/