Voices of Newham 🎶

Voices of Newham is a youth-led music and wellbeing project designed to transform the lives of young people aged 11–25 in Forest Gate and Maryland . Delivered at Forest Gate Youth Centre, the project offers a powerful alternative to the negative influences many young people face. At a time when drill music and postcode wars dominate, creating pressure, division, and unsafe environments, Voices of Newham provides a positive platform for creativity, connection, and community pride.

Through weekly workshops in song,writing, rap, beat-making, recording, and performance, young people will gain access to professional music equipment, studios, and mentors who can guide them towards expressing themselves with uplifting, constructive, and socially conscious lyrics. Participants will learn to tell their own stories, build resilience, and become positive role models for their peers.

This project tackles the three top priorities in our neighbourhood:

• Health & Wellbeing: Young people will develop coping tools for stress, anxiety, and trauma, while building confidence and self-esteem in a supportive, non-judgmental space.
• Youth Empowerment & Role Models: By learning creative and leadership skills, participants will be empowered to mentor others and show that young people can be a force for good.
• Community & Safety: Voices of Newham creates safe, inclusive spaces where postcode barriers are broken down, young people collaborate across divides, and residents come together through performances and showcases.

Community voices who took part of the summer project at Forest Gate:

• “I’ve seen too many young people feel trapped by drill music and negative lyrics. Voices of Newham gives them a chance to create music that lifts them up, not drags them down.” — Local youth worker
• “Before joining, I didn’t think anyone cared about what I had to say. Now I’m writing my own songs and performing them — it’s given me confidence I never had.” — 16-year-old participant
• “It’s wonderful to see young people performing with pride instead of fear. It makes me feel safer and more hopeful for our area.” — Senior resident

By supporting Voices of Newham, residents will be helping to create a safer, stronger, and healthier community. Together, we can ensure Newham’s next generation grows up with pride, resilience, and positive voices that truly represent our borough.