A TEENAGE entrepreneur is aiming to provide Coventry young people with a creative place to spend their Fridays – keeping them away from crime.
Tyler Campbell, 18, hopes his new project FRIDAYS can inspire Coventry teenagers to spend their Friday evenings rapping, singing and enjoying live music.
The weekly event will launch on Friday, July 26 at the Coventry Caribbean Centre on Spon Street, Coventry city centre – featuring DJ Ironik.
The British DJ and rapper is best known for his top three hit and legendary Elton John collaboration, ‘Tinie Dancer’.
Ironik was a stabbing victim in 2010 and he has supported community projects across the country to support young people away from crime.
He has also paid tribute to youth work in Coventry and the FRIDAYS project, organisers say.
Mr Campbell has promised top DJs, guests and celebrities throughout the year – and open mic opportunities for city teenagers between 15 and 17 years old.
As well as entertainment, he wants the scheme to provide mentoring, support and leadership opportunities – and a safe but stimulating space for self-reflection.
Mr Campbell’s team says the project has already received a lot of support from the community including from Coventry Police and charity Positive Youth Foundation – which has provided training for the FRIDAYS volunteers.
All teenagers will be escorted to and from the venue.
After launching the FRIDAYS project, Mr Campbell has been nominated for the Midlands Business, Community and Charity Award in the category of Entrepreneur of the Year.
He says his focus is on youngsters having a good time every Friday and staying away from antisocial behaviour, violence and knife crime.
The membership only event is only open to Coventry kids. Teenagers can register for the £5 a year membership via the email [email protected]
There’s also weekly opportunities for local music talent to perform – they can get in touch on [email protected]
To register and for more information, visit the website.. www.fridays.org.uk
