Young people in Hackney have had the chance to make the most of their creativity through the innovative Hackney Impact Arts Academy organised by voluntary organisations the Mouth That Roars and Rising Tide, and funded by Hackney Youth Service.

Hackney Impact Arts Academy was launched over two weeks in August. Around 70 young people took part in film, dance, music or events management sessions, receiving an ASDAN accreditation and Arts Award.

Participants were taught core life skills, how to make short films, different dance genres, eclectic music skills and much more throughout the project, funded by the Youth Service.

Councillor Rita Krishna, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said: “Congratulations to the organisers and young people who successfully participated in this wonderful project. I hope the Academy will be a launch pad for the wealth of young talent Hackney supports in the arts, allowing participants to meet industry professionals and gain practical skills and qualifications.”

The successful launch has resulted in the Hackney Impact Arts Academy continuing throughout forthcoming school holidays, with sessions organised for the October and February half-terms, when participants will again be able to gain practical hands-on skills and take part in exclusive trips.

To find out more about the Academy contact Mouth That Roars, MTR Studio 23, Ground Floor, 23 Charlotte Road, London EC2A 3PB. Tel: 020 7729 2323; Fax: 020 7729 2381; mouththatroars@btconnect.com or www.mouththatroars.com

For more information about Hackney Youth Service call 020 8356 7404 or visit the Council’s website: www.hackney.gov.uk/youth-service