Global forum inspires teens to end poverty

Sixth formers are returning to their schools and colleges with a vision for ending global poverty after taking part in the Global Student Forum.

The forum, sponsored by Christian Aid, The Damaris Trust and World Vision, enabled more than 540 sixth formers to engage in contemporary developmental issues alongside politicians, campaigners and NGO workers.

The forum commissioned the teenagers to be ‘peer educators’ and raise awareness of the issues in their schools by leading assemblies and lessons on the role of education in ending poverty.

"Charity fatigue may be the preserve of the Live Aid generation but certainly not these teenagers, said GSF co-founder Nick Pollard. "They want to make a difference - by raising the profile of global affairs to their peers."

Carys Jones-Williams, from Radyr Comprehensive in Cardiff, said: "I am going back to my school to actively campaign for universal primary education. We can achieve this and we will."

The forum was joined by Minister for International Development, Stephen O’Brien, who thanked the students for teaching others about global poverty.

He said: “Their efforts will influence so many people to take vital action on the issues facing millions of people across the world blighted by poverty.”

Ben Okafor, former child soldier and internationally acclaimed singer and songwriter, performed a brand new song and invited the sixth formers to come up with their own verses for the song. The winner of the competition will see their verses added into the final recording.

GSF attendee Ellie Byrne, from the Blandford School in Dorset, said: "I learned more today than some children do in their lives. Is that fair?"

Emily Storor, from De Lisle Catholic Science College in Loughborough, said: "It was a really valuable day which I will take with me for the rest of my life. I will no longer sit back and read about how poverty affects people but will do my part in combating it. Everyone deserves a basic education."