TRACKS X LACES - Bringing writing to the ring

With support from the Violence Reduction Unit, Green Gardens at Create Sheffield and Creating Lyrical Genius via Youth Music, we have initiated a project aimed at empowering young people through music, sports, and community engagement, enabling them to advocate for themselves. Tracks has been organising DJ sessions in parks, arranging gigs at the boxing gym, conducting recording and writing workshops, and facilitating music creation at major events. Laces has contributed by providing boxing sessions to diversify the project's activities. The initiative has collaborated with the care community to assist young people and families with care experience in self-advocacy and developed a resource package for organisations to enhance their support for young people. We have also created a mixtape of songs from the young people inspiring us to be honest and share our experiences.