Sir Al Aynsley-Green was a guest speaker at the event where the YMCA shared the developments for their new Community and Activity Village in Newark. The breakfast was an opportunity for the group to encourage youth and community groups and local businesses to work in partnership to provide better experiences and opportunities for children and young people in Newark.
The Tall Ships Project was highlighted as an example of a recent successful collaborative project. College students Grace Songer, Connor Walker and Sam Martin, who took part in the adventure, were invited to discuss their experiences and share their vision for young people in the town to over 70 guests.
Grace Songer also acted as compere for the occasion and woodwind repair student Hannah Hinchcliffe promoted the School of Musical Instrument Crafts with an atmospheric performance on her saxophone.
Grace said: “I’ve really enjoyed having the opportunity to speak today. Before Tall Ships I did not think I was very good at certain things; now I can see I am good at lots of things, such as teamwork, leadership and cooking.
“All young people in Newark should have an opportunity like this to allow themselves to develop as young people.
“One of the issues I see in Newark is young people do not have anyone to speak to face to face if they have a problem. The new YMCA could help with this and provide a safe space for young people to go.
“Newark is a great place to live so we should celebrate that.”
