INDEPENDENT FOSTERING AGENCY, BANYA, ENGAGES WITH TOP NAMES AT BE INSPIRED 2021

One of the UK’s leading independent fostering agency, Banya, is looking forward to their young foster children, carers and workers engaging with the Be Inspired event to empower young people who have experienced care, which takes place on Saturday 31st July.

Be Inspired is an entertaining virtual event originally set up by tv journalist Ashley John-Baptiste who was brought up in foster care himself. Its aim is to inspire, empower and equip young people who have experienced the care system, who want to take hold of their future, learn about different career opportunities, spark aspiration and drive ambition.

This year’s theme ‘Bouncing Back from Covid’ has as its headlining act, award-winning TV personality and stand-up comedian Judi Love. The former social worker, who worked with looked-after children, will talk about the resilience of care-experienced young people. 

The event aims to reach out to 70,000 young people currently in care across the UK and the 10,000 who leave care each year to become care leavers. Banya, the independent fostering agency set up 25 years ago will be one of the organisations taking part. 

Chido Poe, managing director, said: “Fostering can bring huge benefits not only to children, but also to adults who wish to provide a safe and secure home for children who have often suffered neglect, abuse or other trauma. 

“After learning that the event was aimed at inspiring young people in care and care leavers, I knew that this would provide a platform for them to get involved in workshops and panel discussions to inspire, lift and connect with them, giving them the tools and direction to fulfil their dreams.”

Founder Ashley John-Baptiste is a friend to the team at Banya. He experienced at first-hand a childhood in care and how to overcome difficulties in order to achieve goals, follow his dreams and never give up. 

He said: “We want care leavers and young people in care to know they are not alone and that their dreams still matter, no matter that we have just been through a global pandemic. They are not overlooked.”

The motivational virtual experience is set to bring world class speakers, panels offering practical advice and breakout sessions and workshops giving insight into various industries, alongside tools for personal growth and fun performances. 

Hosted by multi-award winning writer, actor, comedian, producer and activist, Sophie Willan, Be Inspired – Bouncing Back from Covid also features other leading names: Penny Jarrett, a wellbeing coach; Poetess Jess, a spoken word artist; rapper Ric Flo and singer song-writer, Luke Burr.

Be Inspired 2021 live-streams at 4pm on Saturday 31st July and is available to watch online at www.beinspiredonline.org.uk for one month after the live-stream. To find out more about Banya visit www.banya.co.uk