National Museums Liverpool launch new Youth Engagement Forum

National Museums Liverpool (NML) are on the lookout for 16–24-year-olds across the Liverpool City Region to redefine what matters to them when it comes to Liverpool’s history and culture.

The Youth Engagement Forum will work together to create and develop a programme of events and activities by young people, for young people – using what they learn from NML exhibitions and projects to create the content they’d like to see. With events set to take place across NML’s seven museums and galleries, the forum hopes to build a platform for a range of voices and opinions to foster inclusivity.

The first meeting will be held on Sunday 14 November in the Treasure House Theatre at World Museum from 11am to 3pm, empowering young people to lead on what they would like to see happening in our buildings and online, while gaining skills through workshopping, discussions and events.

The first project that the forum will work on will be linked to the new Sickert; A Life in Art exhibition, at Walker Art Gallery until 22 Feb 2022. The forum will be involved in programming events linked to the exhibition, as well as taking part in research and getting the opportunity to inform gallery displays and future museum plans. Future projects will be decided on by forum members and linked to exhibitions and projects taking place across National Museums Liverpool.

Claire Benjamin, Head of Learning and Participation at National Museums Liverpool, said:

“The Youth Engagement Forum is a fantastic opportunity for 16–24-year-olds across the city region to meet like-minded people on a regular basis – sharing ideas, gaining experience and discussing topics that really matter to them.

“Opportunities within the forum are open-ended; whether you want to learn how to produce, plan and organise events or get involved in researching our fascinating collections, there’s a chance to get involved in a wide range of activities. Whether you already have a passion for art, science or history or even just want to meet new people, all are welcome. We want to find enthusiastic young people who want to leave their mark on Liverpool’s cultural life”.

By taking part in the forum, young people will gain valuable skills and training through working with creatives and museum professionals, as well as working together as a team – leading on projects that are shaped by their passions and interests. With a strong focus on skills and employability, forum members will gain work experience for their CVs, as well as learn how to host activities in a museum or gallery, digital skills, networking and volunteering.

For more information or to register your interest, contact May Chong, Learning and Participation Manager for Young People, National Museums Liverpool: yuenmay.chong@liverpoolmuseums.org.uk