Summer festival aims to inspire and empower Derby’s young people

An action-packed four-day summer festival is set to take place, which aims to inspire and empower Derby’s young people.

Organised by Derby City Council‘s Derby Promise, the Game Changers Festival is designed specifically for young people aged 14 to 17.

Taking place from Monday 10 August to Thursday 13 August at the Rolls-Royce Derby Leisure & Events Venue‘s Pavilion on Moor Lane, the event offers a unique blend of active sports, hands-on career discovery and personal growth.

To ensure the event is accessible to everyone, entry is completely free for all participants, and a hot lunch will be provided each day.

Designed to help attendees build confidence, discover new interests and explore post-school pathways in a relaxed and welcoming setting, the festival combines energetic activities with practical career exploration.

Throughout the four days, attendees can participate in a wide range of inclusive sports taster sessions.

The line-up includes rugby, football, badminton, dance, boccia, and wheelchair basketball, ensuring there is something for everyone, regardless of skill or mobility level.

Alongside the physical activities, young people will have direct access to practical career workshops focused on Derby’s core and emerging growth industries.

Industry professionals will lead interactive sessions across key sectors, including AI and digital media, automotive and rail, construction, STEM and nuclear and sport and leisure.

Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, the city council’s cabinet member for children, young people and skills, said: “We know that while some people look forward to the six weeks’ holiday, for some it can seem like a very long time to be away from any kind of routine and contact with friends.

“Game Changers is a great way to give Derby’s teenagers something to look forward to in this period, with an event that’s both fun and enriching.

“We’re confident it’ll prove an ideal chance for young people to socialise, build confidence and keep their minds active, exploring new interests, skills and opportunities, as well as exploring possible career paths and how they link with their studies.”

The event is free to all 14 to 17-year-olds, and young people can book on for one day or several, with a hot lunch provided every day.

To book places, click here.