2018 has been a year to remember for the Barking and Dagenham (BAD) Youth Forum and the Young Mayor as together, they have raised the highest ever amount for their chosen charity.

Over the last year, local young people hosted a number of fundraising events and have raised a record £4,340 for local homeless charity, the New Horizon Youth Centre. 

Some of the fundraising activities included a sponsored walk, a games night, non-uniform days, and bucket sharing at Summer of Festivals events.

I would like to say a massive thank you for all their hard work this year and I am looking forward to seeing what they have planned for next year.

Councillor Evelyn Carpenter, Cabinet Member for Educational Attainment and School improvement said: “The BAD Youth Forum continue be a credit to the borough. The work they do throughout the year is incredible and they are a fantastic representation of our young people.

“I would like to say a massive thank you for all their hard work this year and I am looking forward to seeing what they have planned for next year.”

Working alongside a team of BAD Youth Members, the Young Mayor, Wesley Oparaugo, has been an integral part in securing such a large sum of money and was responsible for raising more than half of the sponsored walk money. Some of the events he attended included the Women’s Empowerment Launch, Dagenham Eagles event, African Showcase and the Community against Knife Crime event. 

Wesley said: “I have absolutely enjoyed being the Young Mayor of Barking and Dagenham this year. I have experienced so many things and met so many people I did not think I would be able to.

“Being a part of the Women’s Empowerment event, attending the African Showcase, leading the Youth Parade, and liaising with the Leader of the Council were some of the highlights of this year.”

Phil Kerry, CEO of New Horizon is over the moon with the money that has been raised:

“We can’t thank the young people involved in the BAD Youth Forum enough. They have been amazing supporters of New Horizon Youth Centre and our work helping homeless young people.

“The money will go towards making sure the day centre is open 7 days a week, because homelessness doesn’t take a break at weekends and young people need a safe place to be.”

As well as the fundraising the young people are tasked with carrying out inspections of pharmacies providing free pan-London Come Correct condom distribution in the borough.