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Explore how young people are perceived in contemporary urban Europe and the issues they face, as Dr. Aminul Hoque MBE presents a radical idea that empowers youth to contribute positively to society. Investigate common stereotypes, alternative theories, and engage with crucial topics affecting urban youth today. Discover the unique perspectives of individuals like Chris Prigg, and delve into overlapping issues like technology's impact, lack of investment in youth-friendly facilities, and the importance of accessible role models. Learn key principles of respect and trust in working with young people, as well as empowering messages for both youth and governments. Connect with Dr. Hoque for further insights and discussions.
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Youth in contemporary urban Europe:Understanding the Issues, Implementing the Solutions Dr Aminul Hoque MBE
A Radical Idea Young people can achieve and contribute positively to society
A question for the audience How are young people perceived and portrayed by the media and certain politicians ? What are the common stereotypes and images associated with urban youth ?
An alternative theory of Youth YOUNG PEOPLE: • Are human beings with feelings, needs and emotions; • Are responsible citizens; • Are assets and NOT problems; • Are caring; • Are special, unique and full of ideas; • Are creative and intelligent; • Are street-smart; • Are future leaders of our society; • Deserve a second chance
Issues affecting contemporary urban youth Locate the person next to you and have a discussion about what you feel are the top 3 most important issues affecting the youth of today ?
Chris Prigg • Aged 24 • Did not enjoy schooling • Currently works as a telecommunications engineer • Also volunteers as a community football coach • Is also a peer mentor to other local young people
Overlapping Issues affecting young people • The increasing important and intrusive role of technology – the development of the ‘facebook’ and ‘Ipod’ generation; • The lack of investment in young people friendly facilities especially in deprived neighbourhoods; • A disconnect between 1st, 2nd and 3rd generation family members; • The modern world is more global where affiliations and identity are fluid and dynamic and not rooted to a particular region or country; • Ongoing wider societal issues affecting young people – poverty, poor schooling, crime, police harassment, unemployment etc • Lack of accessible and positive role models
My two key guiders RESPECT TRUST
Key fundamental principles • Talk to young people and LISTEN to their needs; • Understand local geo-social landscape and how they impact young people; • Don’t view young people as TARGET GROUPS; • Develop a flexible approach to work; • Utilise new and innovative methods of communication when working with young people; • Engage in multi-agency partnership work - putting the needs of young people at core of service delivery; • Remember that every young person is unique and has different needs and requirements; • Involve young people in the decision-making process. Make them ‘partners’/ “co-creators” in project delivery
A message for youth • Be the best that you can be; • Think about how you can make a positive difference to society?; • Enjoy and have fun – whatever you do; • Remember, that you are the future; • Become more informed; • “Did I try my best?”; • Work hard, work harder; • ‘Yes we can’
A final message for government • Nazir Ali • Aged 24 • Youth ambassador in East London • Works for the London Metro Service
A simple message • Engage them • Value them • Listen to them • Empower them • Respect them
Contact Details Dr Aminul Hoque MBE a.hoque@gold.ac.uk 0044(0)7939932650 THANK YOU