A St Brendan's Sixth Form College student is helping to shape the future of communities across South Bristol, giving a voice to young people and influencing how millions of pounds of funding could be invested in local areas.
Natasha, who studies English Literature, Spanish and Sociology, has combined her passion for people and communities with a growing commitment to social action and youth leadership.
Her journey began over a year ago when she started volunteering with Hartcliffe Club for Young People. What started as a volunteering opportunity quickly became a transformative experience.
Speaking about her involvement, Natasha said:
"It's the best thing I ever did for myself. It's given me so much more confidence, something to look forward to and enjoy."
Inspired by her experience, Natasha went on to join the Planning Group for the Pride in Place Board, part of a national programme designed to empower local people to shape the future of their neighbourhoods.
The group has been entrusted with helping to guide investment from a £20 million grant, ensuring local people have a say in decisions that will benefit their communities. Natasha now co-leads the Young People's Subgroup, helping to represent the views and experiences of young residents.
One of the group's first achievements was successfully advocating for the inclusion of Withywood within the programme's plans, ensuring more local communities could benefit from future investment and opportunities.
As part of the Pride in Place Youth Consultancy Group, Natasha has also been encouraging young people to share their views on the issues that matter most to them. She has delivered assemblies in local schools and helped gather more than 800 responses from young people across the BS13 area, asking what improvements they would like to see in their community.
The survey findings will help inform future decisions and ensure young people's voices are central to plans for the area.
Natasha's studies in English Literature, Spanish and Sociology have helped her develop the communication, critical thinking and people skills that she brings to her community leadership roles, enabling her to advocate confidently on behalf of others and engage with a wide range of audiences.
Looking ahead, Natasha is eager to continue making a difference.
"I want to improve the community."
Natasha's story highlights the positive impact that volunteering, community engagement and youth leadership can have, not only on local neighbourhoods but on individual confidence and personal growth.
At St Brendan's, we are proud to see students like Natasha using their skills, confidence and determination to create positive change for others. Her commitment to supporting young people and improving opportunities in her community is an inspiring example of the difference students can make when they step forward and get involved.
