Project puts Derby’s young people at the heart of the conversation

A side project of Roots and Futures has been helping Derby’s young people share their thoughts beliefs and ambitions for the future.

Citrey CIC, an offshoot of Roots and Futures, established by Lauren Thompson and Katie Astle, organised Teenage Voices – a week-long programme designed to encourage young people to make their voices heard.

Taking place at Derby QUAD, Teenage Voices of Summer 2026 brought together students aged 14 and over for The Art of Discourse, a five-day programme exploring debate, public speaking, critical thinking and communication.

Created by Citrey CIC, the programme was designed to give young people the confidence to express what they think, while also learning how to listen, challenge ideas and engage with different points of view.

During the week they took part in public speaking, debate, discussion and practical exercises, looking at how to build and challenge an argument, analyse evidence, consider different perspectives and communicate their own ideas.

The programme was led by published playwright and London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art practitioner Liz Richardson, who brought her experience in public speaking and performance to bear on the sessions.

She said: “Part of my work as an actor and LAMDA teacher for Teenage Voices was to help equip the young people who attended with the tools, confidence and platforms, via Citrey CIC, to make their voices harder to ignore and further develop and strengthen their passions for their surrounding worlds.

“It was a joy and a privilege to work with these young people.”

One of the young people taking part was Satya Prince Zala, who said she welcomed the chance to be able to use her voice to express her views.

She added: “It really helped me to feel more confident voicing my own ideas and make my own decisions.

“Younger people aren’t always involved enough, but we should be included more. We are the future of the city, and we can offer a completely different perspective.”

Lauren said she hopes Teenage Voices will be rolled out in the future to give young people a greater role in conversations about their communities and their futures.

She said: “After months of detailed planning and deep personal investment, seeing this vision come to life has been an immensely emotional moment.

“By equipping young people with the oracy skills and confidence they need to thrive as future employees, we are also strengthening social cohesion at a time when digital platforms so often push extreme views.

“Giving our youth a genuine voice isn’t just nice to have; it’s essential for a connected, resilient community.”