On Tuesday, October 15th, the Gordon Craig Theatre in Stevenage hosted the Beyond Barriers Conference, organised by the Stevenage Equalities Commission.
This event brought together local and national groups to discuss recommendations aimed at overcoming systemic racial inequalities affecting communities in Stevenage and Hertfordshire County.
The conference featured engaging workshops focused on critical areas such as Youth, Crime, and Justice, allowing participants to explore actionable solutions to challenges.
V4CE's Contribution
Voice4Change England (V4CE) played a vital role at the conference, showcasing its efforts to tackle racial inequalities and promote equity. Jana Kovariova and Sophia Hossain highlighted key initiatives, including:
- Home Truths in partnership with Acevo
- Contract Readiness with SSE, SEUK, and DCMS
- The Catalyst Programme, which empowers BME-led organisations through workshops, consultations, and networking opportunities.
Key Takeaways
1. Networking Opportunities: The conference facilitated valuable connections between V4CE and BME-led organisations in Stevenage, fostering collaboration through the Catalyst Programme.
2. Open Conversations: Discussions on uncomfortable topics related to systemic racial inequalities were emphasised, encouraging participants to confront these issues directly.
3. Powerful Personal Stories: Attendees shared compelling narratives that highlighted the real-life impact of racial inequalities, inspiring collective action.
Invitation for Collaboration
V4CE welcomes invitations to participate in events for BME-led groups, whether through speaking engagements or networking opportunities. By sharing insights and experiences, we aim to foster collaboration for meaningful change.
As we move forward from the Beyond Barriers Conference, let’s continue building on this momentum. Together, we can create a more equitable future for all communities in Stevenage and beyond.
You can find more information about our Catalyst Programme here.
By Ditipriya Acharya,
Senior Media, Marketing and Communications Officer
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