This year, #iwill Ambassadors will reflect on the varied experiences of young people across the UK, while leading discussions on their right to participate in shaping our democracy. The #iwill Movement represents young people from all backgrounds, whose lives and contributions have been shaped in different ways by the events of 2024. From those who are empowered by their right to vote, to those who express their voice through grassroots action, all are united by a shared commitment to positive change. 

#StillWeRise is about the determination and collective strength of young people across the UK, each rising in their own way to create a better future for everyone. This theme is about recognising the struggles many young people have faced, whilst also being an opportunity to celebrate the resilience, resolve, compassion and commitment of young people as they continue to make an impact in their communities, facing challenges through social action. What unites us and strengthens our community of changemakers is our shared drive to make a difference. Despite everything, #StillWeRise. 

Throughout the week, #iwill Ambassadors and Champions, Power of Youth Charter signatories and partners, as well as young people and organisations across the UK, are invited to engage with the daily sub-themes that make up our overarching theme for the week:

#StillWeRise: Finding the balance - Navigating trauma, unrest and division, especially in the context of social media. 

#StillWeRise: In Community – The role of youth social action in combatting community tension. 

#StillWeRise: It Takes us All - Creating the conditions for young people to rise.

#StillWeRise: Against the Odds - The experiences and struggles of influencing change.

#StillWeRise: Defying Stereotypes – Confronting public perceptions of young people. 

Whilst the week won't be focussed entirely on this work, perhaps the poem could inspire some creative written content around the themes of the week.

This will be an in-person event held in Manchester. Ambassador travel will be covered by UK Youth.

Here's how you can get involved:

1. Write a Stanza: Think about one of the themes of #iwill Week that resonates most with you—whether it's resilience, community, empowerment, overcoming barriers, or defying stereotypes. Write a short stanza (around 4 lines) that expresses your thoughts, feelings, or experiences related to that theme. Please submit your stanza via the Google form linked above.

2. Submit a Voice Note: Once you’ve written your stanza, record yourself reading it as a voice note. This will help bring the poem to life with your own voice and personal touch. Please send your voice note to Cate on +44 7375 255370, ensuring that the audio is as clear as possible (try to record away from any background noise!)

3. Eva, a fellow #iwill Ambassadors, will be animating the poem, so your voice and words will become part of a collective, creative piece that represents all of us.