Young LIFI 2025: Free resource available for schools
A first for Leeds International Festival of Ideas (2025) saw a brand-new strand introduced for schools designed to inspire the next generation: Young LIFI.
Co-curated with The Ruth Gorse Academy to enthuse and educate younger audiences, the debut event hosted at Leeds Playhouse in October explored how do young people acquire bouncebackability? Bringing together inspirational experts and role models from across sport, broadcasting, social media, fundraising, and mental health, it looked at what it means to be resilient today, offering tools for navigating life’s trials and tribulations.
Hosted by Newsround presenter Shanequa Paris, it featured Jamie Jones Buchanan MBE – rugby league legend and newly appointed Chief Executive of Leeds Rhinos; Dr Radha Modgil – NHS GP, broadcaster and wellbeing expert; Matthew Akpan – entrepreneur, educator, and advocate for young people and Ami Charlize – social media personality and motivational speaker – who all shared their advice and knowledge about succeeding against the odds.
Young LIFI: How do young people acquire bouncebackability? event recording is now available free to schools to share with their students.
The full session to show case in schools and lessons:
Resources and Support Services:
ChildLine
ChildLine is a free, 24-hour confidential helpline for children and young people who need to talk. Phone: 0800 1111
The Mix
The Mix provide non-judgmental support and information for young people under 25 on a variety of issues including mental wellbeing, sex and relationships, bullying, exam stress, money, drugs, and self-harm. Text: THEMIX to 85258
Young Minds
YoungMinds offers information, support and advice for children and young people on mental health, wellbeing, racism, and self-harm. Text: YM to 85258
Kooth
Kooth for Children & Young People. Whatever you’re feeling, we’re here to help. Get free, safe and anonymous support. Mini-activities to boost your wellbeing.
Child Friendly Leeds Wishes
Child Friendly Leeds’ Wish 1 focuses on ensuring that children and young people understand their mental health, know where to find support, and can easily access information, advice, and services when needed.
The blog page demonstrates our commitment to helping children and young people understand their mental health and know exactly where to find support when they need it with blogs from schools and organisations, resources and links to helpful websites and more information.
In Leeds, we believe children and young people should be heard, valued and supported to thrive and we’re always working with organisations and our ambassadors to make this happen. If you have any questions or want to join the mailing list for future opportunities, please email childfriendlyleeds@leeds.gov.uk.
