We are BMBF

Vicky

Hi, I'm Vicky and I am the new Head of Community Safety on the Big Committee.

I joined Bright Minds Big Futures in 2019 and have had the opportunity to take part in some amazing events and activities including paddleboarding. I also supported the mental health social media campaign and have helped at various events including Secret Sound and Ropner Park Food Festival.

In my role with BMBF, I am looking forward to finding out more about what is important to young people in ensuring they feel safe where they live and tackling issues such as hate crime.

I work in retail and in my spare time enjoy writing and attending music gigs. I have my own social media account to raise awareness of mental health and more stigmatised disorders.

I am looking forward to working with local primary schools, charities and Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council to raise awareness and identify key campaigns that will hopefully make a difference to where I live.

Alex

Hello everyone, my name is Alex and I am the Head of Special Educational Needs (SEN) on the Big Committee.

I have been with BMBF for over five years and have sat on the Committee representing SEN since 2019. During this time I have corresponded at events such as SIRF, visited schools, worked on our allotment, organised and hosted Secret Sound, and approved buildings and businesses that are suitable for young people and for those with additional needs.

I also recently received a Mayor's Civic Award for Young Person of the Year for my work within the Borough.

I originally joined BMBF to try to help improve the lives of young people in Stockton-on-Tees and raise awareness for those with additional needs. Over the years I've achieved so much I wouldn't have managed without BMBF.

Another thing I have got through BMBF is the bonds and friendships I have made. I would definitely recommend that young people in Stockton-on-Tees should join. Not only is it good for your personal development but also a great place to find new friends and make a difference in our great Borough!

Sally

Hello, my name is Sally and I'm a new member of Bright Minds Big Futures.

I'm 15 and live in Ingleby Barwick. I recently joined BMBF and am loving it. I joined because I really enjoy getting involved in new things and BMBF is a great opportunity to make new friends, make a difference in our local community and learn valuable and exciting skills outside of the classroom.

I am passionate about the environment and am keen to get more involved in the Norton Green Project. I would also like to encourage more young people aged 18 and 19 to register to vote.

I think it is really important that young people understand politics and democracy and have the opportunity to have their voice heard.

I am really excited to explore all the opportunities available with BMBF and can't wait to see what the future brings!

Emma

Hi, I'm Emma and I'm the Head of Children and Young People's Services on the Big Committee.

I'm 16 and live in Eaglescliffe. I joined Bright Minds Big Futures last year as I wanted to meet new people and see what opportunities it would bring.

I am keen to work with younger children and people my own age to help and support them when they need it. Having been through a lot myself and struggled to find support, it has driven me to help others and make a difference.

I am very creative and when I finish school later on this year, I will be going to college to study art and design. This is with a view to possibly using my skills to provide art therapy to children who are going through a tough time or are poorly, as I found it helpful myself.

I have already made some good friends and am loving being a part of BMBF, the events and opportunities it gives.