A message of Hope
I’m going to keep speaking out, supporting others, and working to deliver hope, positivity and change.
What hopes do you have for the future?
“I hope that we will be closer to a more equal society, in which everyone can have fair access to opportunities, everybody’s rights will be respected and we can celebrate all our differences and learn from them. If everyone can be safe and comfortable in themselves, then the future will be much brighter.”
Do you have a message of hope you could share with young people who are feeling anxious/uncertain because of COVID-19?
“Even without a global pandemic, there are many issues we have in the world today to be anxious about, so we must care for ourselves and everyone around us. My message of hope is, be kind to yourself and others, keep hydrated, limit your screen time, get fresh air, eat some fruit, and never be afraid to speak up if you need help.”
If you could encourage young people to do one thing, what would it be?
“If you’re not already, try doing some volunteering! There are so many virtual opportunities right now and hopefully soon, more in person. Do some research and see if you can find any volunteering opportunities related to something you’re passionate about and get involved. You never know how much change you might be able to make to yourself and others.”
Do you have a song of hope? (Or a book, poem, piece of art – anything that reminds you of hope or brings you hope)!
“Jamming – Bob Marley and The Wailers.
Lanai Collis-Phillips
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Lanai volunteers for an award-winning project at the charity Volunteering Matters called WASSUP, which stands for Women Against Sexual Exploitation and Violence Speak Up. She works within a team of women, raising awareness of key issues such as domestic abuse, exploitation and gang grooming. Lanai and her team deliver trauma informed toolkits, endorsed by the Suffolk Safeguarding Board, to young people and professionals all across Suffolk. She regularly volunteers with Clarion Futures (the charitable subsidiary of Clarion Housing Group), supporting with youth initiatives, and is currently participating in the Youth Exchange Programme; a project in partnership with the Royal Commonwealth Society enabling young people to lead on social action projects around the world. As well as this, Lanai is an active ambassador for the #iWill campaign, championing youth social action and the power of young people.