Drumming up Exchange Factor enthusiasm

Published July 28, 2010.

Young performers from Peterlee will be drumming up enthusiasm at a celebration of international youth work soon.

Afinado, a newly-formed group of young, urban street drummers, will perform at The Exchange Factor to celebrate the United Nations International Youth Day next month. (August 12)

Held at The Assembly Rooms, Newcastle on August 12, it aims to help youth workers and young people to find out more about international opportunities and launches the UN International Year of Youth.

“The event will give ideas, help and advice about setting up and running international projects and exchanges,” said Lucy Turzynski, Durham County Council’s assistant international officer, and a member of the International Youth Opportunities North East (IYONE) Committee which is organising the celebration with regional partners.

“We hope it will encourage young people to get involved in international projects and realise the value of working with similar groups from other countries.

“There will be a range of fun and inspiring activities as well as a team of experts on hand to answer questions about international projects and exchanges,” she said.

Leon Mexter, chief executive of the Regional Youth Work Unit, said:  “Taking part in an international youth exchange, volunteering abroad or going to visit other parts of the world can be life changing.

“International youth work has a tremendous amount to offer young people in our region.  We hope the day will stimulate a whole new group of young people to organise and take part in youth exchanges and volunteering programmes which open up their understanding of the world.”

Euro MP Stephen Hughes:  “This event will bring together youth groups and workers from across the North East to share good practice, learn about accessing funding.

“It will also encourage and congratulate youth workers for the invaluable support they give in raising the aspirations of young people in the North East of England.”

Young people wanting to  take part in the Exchange Factor should register in advance online at www.rywu.org.uk/exchange-factor/ or call Leon Mexter, Regional Youth Work Unit North East on 0191 440 4410.

Ends.