WCOYC BLOG 1: Introduction to the Wolverhampton City of Youth Culture blog series

“What do we do when the art galleries, theatres, community centres and youth clubs close? What do we do when the youth of Wolverhampton can no longer access musical instruments at school, festivals in the summer and creative clubs to attend in their free time? If we are to do nothing, we slowly walk into permanent ordinariness.”

That is where we come in. The Wolverhampton City of Youth Culture (WCOYC) is a 3-year project consisting of a cohort of Wolverhampton based Peer Researchers who are passionate about community arts projects and creating opportunities for young people to explore their creative potential. We want to see what is happening in Wolverhampton’s art scene.

Our method of research through interviews and observations during local cultural events is participatory, personal and people focused. Through this approach, we aim to understand the cultural needs of the youngest members of our community in order to make positive change.

We understand the positive and generative impact that accessing the arts can have. Our understanding comes from the scientific evidence that the Arts exercises our imagination and feeds us in positive ways.

As a collective we imagine what talent could be realised, and what benefits could flow if the youth of Wolverhampton could be part of the energy of lasting growth in the arts. That is why the Wolverhampton City of Youth Culture project strives to create a legacy of increased youth and intergenerational engagement in arts and cultural activities.

 

The WCOYC peer researcher team: who are we?

Introducing…Doina Surchicin

Hello! I’m Doina Surchicin, a peer researcher for the WCOYC project, but beyond that, I’m a passionate explorer of both the arts and technology. Whether it’s music, visual arts, digital media, or computing, I love diving into creative and technical fields alike.

Alongside my passion for the arts, I also have a strong interest in the technical side of things, always looking for ways to blend creativity with logic and problem-solving. Whether it’s exploring coding, digital design, or emerging technologies, I enjoy pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

Through this project, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing live orchestral performances, interactive workshops, and creative exhibitions, all whilst working alongside other artists and researchers. My role allows me to not only observe but to engage, document, and share the incredible cultural experiences happening in Wolverhampton.

This blog is where we bring those experiences to life—so stick around, explore, and join the conversation!

Introducing…Taneesha Lewis

Hi, I’m Taneesha Lewis, one of the Peer Researchers for the WCOYC project. My educational background is in creative media production, with a degree in Film and Television. Post university, I began working as a social media marketing and projects assistant within Wolverhampton’s local creative scene.

Since 2023, I have worked as a creative facilitator at a children’s arts holiday activity club, which provides children with a space to be imaginative, creative, and try new art forms in a safe and inclusive environment. Having worked a lot with children and young people from diverse backgrounds and with various accessibility needs, I felt it was important for me to be part of WCoYC.

I believe that art and creativity should be accessible to everyone regardless of their background, as they can positively shape a person’s life and development. I was fortunate enough to have access to the arts as a child through dance classes, which has had a significant impact on who I am today. I am excited to be part of a project that offers today’s children and young people a chance to experience this, which could improve and enhance their lives.

Introducing…Rachel Winsper

I’m Rachel Winsper, a Peer Researcher with the WCOYC project, now in my second year. I’m passionate about community arts projects and creating opportunities for young people to explore creative careers. I wear many hats! In addition to my role as a Peer Researcher, I run a creative business and work in a school careers team in Wolverhampton, supporting students in finding their future pathways.  I truly believe in the value of the arts and creative careers, not just for individuals, but for the whole of society. Through my work, I strive to inspire and empower the next generation of creatives. Having seen firsthand how the arts can transform lives, I’m committed to making creative opportunities accessible to all, especially young people. The City of Youth Culture programme is an exciting and dynamic initiative that I’m incredibly proud to be part of.

 

Introducing…Simone Booth

Hiya, I’m Simone a Peer Researcher and definitely the oldest member of the team. So, you’re probably wondering why I became involved with the WCOYC project? My career started in youth work in various organisations such as Youth Services, the Caravan Project, Detached Youth Worker and the Children’s Society. I later qualified as a Social Worker which I did for over 10 years and worked as an Independent Reviewing Officer for 14 years- always working with children and young people which I’m sure has kept me young at heart.

I was once a child / young person like you and l was so glad to have the chance through various arts, music and dance to discover new things, expand my skills, learn different ways to express myself, enjoying activities and feeling connections with others; as l hope you will too!

Come on – join in and make your future ☺!

Introducing…Luke Guy

Hi, my name is Luke Guy, I am a peer researcher on the WCOYC project. In additional to my role as a Peer Researcher, I am also an Engagement Officer at Healthwatch Wolverhampton where I listen to residents’ experiences of using health and social care services and record the issues and concerns raised which are then used to inform commissioners and service providers. I strongly believe in the power of listening, and the WCOYC gives me the opportunity to engage first hand with the youth navigating the arts to really understand what matters to them. The project is one that also allows me to bring a wide range of resources to the table, informed by my own personal navigation of the arts scene both locally and nationally. I believe the Wolverhampton City of Youth Culture has the potential of creating a strong legacy, one that is committed to promoting artistic creativity but also building a support network for the youth of Wolverhampton.

 

Read on…..

We’ll be posting collaborative blogs about the different events happening throughout the project. Read on to get an insight into the ‘Orchestral Adventure Through Time’ event where you can also access some of the music from the event.

 

Authors: Luke Guy, Doina Surchicin, Taneesha Lewis, Rachel Winsper, and Simone Booth