Olatilewa, who is now 18, currently studies at Bedford College. Significantly, she serves on the state’s first youth-led grant-making body, which gives young people the power to change their community by distributing grants. As a member of Bedford Giving’s Youth Panel, Olatilewa helped direct where grant money would be distributed. The magic they created inspired nearly £90,000 of new funding to be channeled into local initiatives focused on youth social action.
Proceeds from the fund, administered by a panel of young people, were used to respond to community needs and decide how money should be distributed. Olatilewa, currently on a T-Level in business, said the encounter was both surprising and impactful. I didn’t only learn about the mechanics of charities. Now I have an important stake in how they should be funded and funded them. She added, active role in their funding.
Paul Kellett, director of Bedford Giving, shone a light on just how important this goes initiative truly is. Perhaps most importantly, it empowers young people to play a key role in shaping their community. As he said, “The students were not only asked for advice – they were empowered to take charge. Olatilewa and her fellow interns worked hand in hand. From their unique lived experiences and perspective, these teens made important decisions that would serve the best interests of their fellow Bedford teens.
So how did the Youth Panel make a difference? Their awarded six grants to local groups such as Embrace, Fun 4 Young People, Boxing Saves Lives, Link to Change, Bedford Open Door and Faith in Queens Park. These grants combine to help energize the youth of Bedford Borough. They open the doors to vital tools and networks that advance their specific interests.
Olatilewa expressed her belief in the necessity of youth involvement in community decisions by stating, “Young voices shouldn’t just be heard, they should be part of the solution. We’re not just ‘the future’, we’re part of the change now.” She underscored that the process had provided them with “trust, responsibility, a seat at the table.” This really underscored the notion that young people are a formidable force for positive change in their communities.
The Youth Panel’s work is just another example of the increasing acknowledgement that youth engagement is essential to local issues. Initiatives such as Bedford Giving extend that power to young people in organizations and allow them to drive conversations and funding decisions. Centering this approach creates a foundation for sustainable change.
