Liverpool Lighthouse provided local young people a chance, for one day only, to experience what its like to be a star – in order to raise their aspirations and to help encourage them to keep working hard in order to develop their talents and achieve success in the music industry.

Working with Liverpool One five young people and a boy band (all from north Liverpool) were given the opportunity to perform on the same stage as X factor hero Rebecca Ferguson, who is from Anfield – which is also the base of the gospel arts venue Liverpool Lighthouse.

The performances took place on a Stage in Liverpool One from 3pm, building up to the switch on of the Christmas lights and a performance by Rebecca Ferguson at 6pm on Wednesday 9th November.

Harmonize Youth Connect Manager Matt Moreton said “When Liverpool One approached us to provide acts for the turning on of the Christmas lights we were very happy to give some of our most talented young people this opportunity. These young people come from mixed backgrounds, some having been excluded from main stream education, but they all have a passion for music, and it has helped inspire them to make positive choices in their lives.”

One of the performers on the day was Callum McKenna (18). Callum was excluded from his school when he was 15, because he reacted to being bullied because of his weight. After a year out of school he joined Harmonize and attended for 2 years. The fitness and dance sessions helped him lose 2 stone in weight and his confidence and self-esteem improved dramatically. Since attending Callum has taken part in 8 performances, recorded 3 albums and has written and performed his own songs and raps. Callum gained 3 GCSE equivalent qualifications. Callum says of Harmonize: “It changed my life.”

Liverpool Lighthouses Harmonize programme uses music, urban arts and personal development to engage with young people excluded from, or at risk of exclusion from school. The learners work towards 5 GCSE level qualifications: Performance skills, Music Technology, Technical theatre, English and Maths. They develop confidence and self esteem through performance and the support and care of the staff.

Natalie Green (18) is another performer who has been involved in Liverpool Lighthouse since the age of 14. Natalie volunteers regularly in the evening and weekend “Youth Connect” activities having formed “Green Street” a free street dance crew based at Liverpool Lighthouse for 13-18 year olds. Natalie says “Youth Connect has helped me progress and given me opportunities to work with young people and teach them dance. I love it and encourage anyone who has a passion for dance, singing or any other arts to get involved – it can change your life!”

For more information please contact Matt Moreton on 0151 476 2342 or email youthconnect@ljmgroup.org.uk