Celebrating Project CREATE's Young Persons’ Advisory Group
The heart of Project CREATE has always been its Young Persons’ Advisory Group (YPAG) who did not just contribute to the project - they shaped it. Their ideas, energy and lived experiences have guided the work in ways that far exceeded our expectations. This blog piece is written by Danelle Lee, Project Manager for Project CREATE.
A space to be heard
When the project first started, the YPAG was made up of a diverse group of young people aged 10-24.
For many YPAG members, being part of this group has meant more than just participating in research. It has been about being seen, valued and understood throughout Project CREATE, which began over two years ago with a series of creative Living Labs and regional workshops.
As Srhya Lalh, one of the YPAG members, shared: "It has given me a space where I feel truly seen and heard, not just as a young person but as someone whose cultural background and personal experiences genuinely matter in shaping the work we do." And she added:
Representation is powerful. It is not just about having a seat at the table, but about helping to rebuild the table so that others like me can sit there too.
Leading the Way
YPAG members have taken on leadership roles across Project CREATE, always choosing to do so on their own terms. They have:
- Co-designed and led the "Not So Alone" campaign and podcast, using art and storytelling to build connection among young people.
- Participated as co-researchers in four Living Lab workshops.
- Joined various focus groups to improve adolescent mental health research.
- Attended monthly meetings dedicated to developing and shaping the "Not So Alone" campaign so it stayed relevant and reflective of youth voice.
- Contributed to the "Do You Mean What I Mean" resource, an outcome of Project CREATE research.
- Offered their youth perspectives on mental health measures through research analysis.
- Represented CREATE at the Conference on Youth Loneliness at the Royal Danish Embassy and the Joshua Van Leader ‘Inspire to Inspire’ mental health exhibition.
- Spoken at the Project CREATE webinar series, sharing their experiences with wider audiences.
Growing through collaboration
Throughout their involvement, YPAG members have developed a wide range of skills, many of which will support them far beyond this project:
Leadership: Taking initiative in meetings and campaign planning.- Communication: Engaging with peers, researchers and external partners.
- Creativity: Producing content for social media and short films.
- Digital literacy: Learning podcast production and social media strategy.
- Storytelling: Using visual and narrative tools to share ideas.
- Technical skills: Working with creative digital tools CapCut, iMovie, PowerPoint and Canva.
- Empathy: Listening and contributing to inclusive discussions, understanding other people.
- Critical thinking: Responding thoughtfully to complex topics.
- Adaptability: Navigating new challenges and creative tasks.
In their own words
YPAG members have found a space to develop not only as contributors but as individuals. Here are some more reflections from members themselves about what being part of this journey has meant to them:
“I have been able to gain and improve some skills as a result of being part of a project create such as becoming more adaptable ... I have also become more creative and diverse in terms of my perspective on things” - Dario Johnson.
“Being a part of the YPAG has provided me a space to communicate, grow, and learn, not only as an individual, but also as a member of a collaborative group. Engaging with such a wide range of perspectives inspired me to think more creatively and step outside of my comfort zone” - Annanya Thumbarathy.
“Being part of the Project CREATE YPAG has given me the opportunity to work on a project that places young people at the heart of research into mental health. Rather than being passive participants we are directly involved and actively shaping the work” - Sophie Smith.
Lasting impact
Our young advisors have taken part in creative expressions such as filmmaking, collage and photography.
Our YPAG members have taught us how to be better collaborators, better listeners and not least better researchers.
Their contributions have gone beyond leaving their mark on a project as they have helped share a culture of care and creativity in the process.
This blog is a celebration of their work, their voices, and their leadership. CREATE has been stronger because of them - and future projects will be too.
With deep thanks to all YPAG members for your insight, honesty and commitment throughout Project CREATE.