The Forge: Charford 2026 – A lively showcase at Charford Youth Club

Across January to March 2026, 33 young people aged 12-15 got involved in another Forge project. Over 10 weeks, they chose to develop their skills in music, dance, visual arts and filmmaking, exploring different ways to showcase their creativity. 

A range of guest artists were invited in to deliver specialist sessions, these included: Joe Cook (poetry and rapping), Tara Chinn (singing and songwriting), Kameel from Your Next Move (dance), and Zed in the clouds (T‑shirt art). Participants had the opportunity to choose activities that interested them most, which helped shape the direction of the project. 

The project was overseen by DJ, music producer, and facilitator Auden ‘AJ’ Allen, who created a safe space for young people to take part in ways that felt right for them. AJ helped participants find a role that suited them. Some people were singers and DJs, other preferred being behind the scenes. We began filming activities during sessions and interviewing guest artists which the young people helped edit together into a short documentary film of their project. One young person shared that they had enjoyed DJing so much they have now taken private lessons since. 

Friends, family, and YMCA/Severn Arts staff attended the final showcase. It consisted of a short film recorded by the group, two original songs, and a group DJ set. Dan, the YMCA group leader, and AJ gave speeches whilst certificates were handed out to everyone.  

The young people learned new creative skills. worked with new people and pushed themselves out of their comfort zones. The showcase reflected the effort, creativity, and teamwork shown throughout the project. Overall, it demonstrated the importance of the youth club and their friendships.