Teens' film to attract volunteers

REEL dedication ... back row (from left): Stephanie Hill, Mahima Ahmed, Lindsey Martin, Cara Milton, Chloe Hart and Rabiah Aziz. Front row: Ekram Ahmed, Shonal Kapoor and Sirak Girmay

TEENAGERS turned into film-makers as part of a community project that taught them vital life skills.

The youngsters, aged 15 to 17, have spent part of their summer holidays researching and making a film to encourage more people in Oldham to volunteer.

Supported by housing association Contour Homes, the project was part of the National Citizenship Service, which brings communities together and builds young people's skills and confidence.

The group of eight spent three weeks learning about teamwork and leadership, while taking on a media challenge to make the film promoting volunteering in Oldham.

The teenagers interviewed people from local organisations such as Regenda Homes, Hollinwood Work Club, Hollinwood Hub, Oasis Academy, Mahdlo Youth, Oasis Academy Limeside and Avenues and Hollins Community Hall.

They then edited the footage to create a short film encouraging residents to get more involved with local projects.

The group finished by hosting a final launch party, where they showcased the film alongside an Olympic fun day for family, friends and members of the community.

More than 70 people attended the event at the Avenues and Hollins Hall, where they enjoyed a day of food, face-painting and games - all organised and paid for by the teenagers themselves, who raised £142 to cover the costs.

One of the group, Shonal Kapoor (15), from Chadderton, said: "Planning the project has been a great experience which has taught me the importance of careful strategy and logistics.

"It's good that we are helping to make a difference in the community and hopefully we can encourage more volunteering in the area."

Remaining funds are being donated to Hollinwood Hub.