‘I am so happy to have a support group that is relatable. I have learnt so much on how to navigate negative situations and focus on what matters the most me’. Shakira

2023 has been a transformative year for our Documentary Film Initiative. Through interviews, workshops, and creative expression, care-experienced individuals have had the opportunity to share their stories, breaking down societal barriers and misconceptions.

• Workshops & Filmmaking: Participants learned about different filmmaking techniques and explored how to tell their stories through a powerful medium. We also hosted industry-based experiences, including an incredible visit to ARRI Stage London, a world-class virtual production facility.
• Creative Expression: Our in-person workshops focused on using poetry, art, and presentations to express personal narratives. Participants found new confidence in their creative abilities while developing leadership and teamwork skills.

Impact:  While the film is still in production, snippets  have already touched over 150 people through workshops and events related to the film’s development, fostering empathy and awareness in the community. We plan to officially screen the documentary in late 2025 early 2026. 

Our Mentorship Programme has been nothing short of life-changing. Through personalised, wraparound support, young care experienced individuals are given the tools they need to succeed in education, employment, and personal development.

• Work Experience Grants: 100% of our participants were given access to work experience grants, helping them gain valuable skills in real-world settings.
• Confidence-Building: 98% of participants reported significant growth in their self-confidence, with many now feeling more prepared to take on leadership roles and public speaking opportunities.

Impact: To date, we have mentored over 30 young people and counting, many of whom are now pursuing higher education and employment opportunities they never thought possible.

At Calling4gr8ness CIC, we believe in not only telling the stories of care-experienced young people but also equipping them with the skills and opportunities to shape their own futures. Our Work Experience Grants provide real-world experiences that help young people gain confidence, develop professional skills, and take control of their futures.

Our Work Experience Grants offer care-experienced youth the opportunity to engage in meaningful,  incentivised work that aligns with their personal and career goals. These grants help young people:

• Gain Practical Skills: Participants work on real projects and learn skills they can apply in future jobs.
• Build Confidence: Work experience grants provide the recognition these young people deserve, boosting their self-esteem and preparing them for the professional world.
• Expand Their Networks: Participants connect with mentors, industry professionals, and peers, building a strong network that can support them as they pursue future education and career opportunities.

• 100% of participants in the Voice 4 Action Programme received work experience grants, equipping them with skills in filmmaking, project planning, and more.
•  A substantial portion of our resources was dedicated to these opportunities, enabling care-experienced youth to focus on their growth and learning without financial worries 

• 84% of participants are now actively pursuing further education or employment opportunities as a result of their work experience with Calling4gr8ness.

Success Story: One participant, who had never considered a career in the creative industries, now plans to pursue further training in film production. Thanks to the hands-on experience and mentorship received through our Work Experience Grants, they gained the confidence to apply for industry placements.

2023 also saw us take our young people beyond their everyday environments.

Through the Culture Exchange Programme, participants travelled to Preston and Sheffield, engaging with local communities, exploring new cultural landscapes, and forming strong, lasting bonds with peers and mentors.

• Preston Cultural Exchange: A day filled with outdoor activities, including stone-baked pizza making and a visit to local allotments, helped foster personal growth and cultural understanding.
• Sheffield Trip: A weekend of creativity, including street parties and collaborative workshops, further boosted participants’ confidence and team-building skills.

Impact: These trips provided life-changing experiences that opened doors to new possibilities for our young people.