IN RECENT years I have used my column on a number of occasions to highlight the successes of our areas young people. Much of those successes have come from the support, advice and motivation offered at the DRC Youth Project based in Yoker but working across the North West of the city and working in collaboration with other organisations city-wide.

At the end of February, DRC joined with G15 Youth Project to host “The Your Voice Event” – it brought partners and organisations together whilst showcasing the brilliant work that the two youth projects are absolutely leading the way on.

There was an opportunity to try out VR Racing or find out more about barbering and hair curling, you could try your hand at sound production in the music studio or give the graffiti art workshop a go. They even managed to get the local Councillors on their bike to make a smoothie – thanks Glasgow Eco Trust! Just to name a few things.

The showcase of success stories was brilliant to see too. A key example being the beauty salon which is being run in collaboration with trainees from John Paul Academy – it’s a really popular initiative and gives those involved practical experience on what it’s like to use their skills.

Another highlight for a lot of the young people was Nico Carrillo meeting many of the young people – Nico is a former member of the youth project and Muay Thai World Champion.

Whilst it was an evening aimed at encouraging the young people to get more involved in the activities as one of the local Councillors I came away feeling so inspired and proud of the community that continues to grow.

The demand for the services DRC Youth Project provide is on the rise and their successes are continually being added to – more and more young people wanting to get involved, learn a new skill, get that support to get back into education or the work place all whilst they are shown the power of giving back to their local community – it truly is incredible.

Arthur who leads a phenomenal team at DRC go above and beyond on a daily basis to support young people and give many of them that second chance. Politicians often say that “Youth work changes lives” – the DRC Youth Project team are a constant reminder to me of how true that quote is.

I’ll end by saying a huge well done to the youth committee at DRC, they worked so hard to make the open day a reality, giving up their own time and fundraising. They are an absolute credit to our local community and I am so proud of them.