Our voice

S’s Story

Who am I?

I was first involved with them back in 2018 when I did a project that was later shown in the Turner Contemporary as well as helping with the campaign to get funding for the AEE building. I then reconnected with them in 2022 when I started doing drum lessons. Since then, I have produced music, been involved in some amazing projects and achieved things I never thought I could. 

What youth issues do I care about?

I care a lot about young people’s mental health and how it is dealt with in schools and by ‘specialists’. I think the resources are really lacking and young people need more people that will really listen to them and provide them with the next steps to take when they are struggling. 

What art/music/activism have I created and what am I proud of?

I have made 4 different songs all with different meanings and vibes and I am super proud of all of them. Over my time with AEE I have also been getting so much better at playing the drums which I love doing a lot. I was also part of the campaign to get funding to stay open which meant I got to work with director Tom Dream and also was projected onto the side of a building which was really cool. I am also proud of myself for performing in the Tom Thumb Theatre, POW festival, and Margate Youth Pride. 

Why should a young person come to AEE?

In my opinion, everybody needs AEE in their lives. I cannot stress how much they have helped me over the years. Being able to make music really helps express my feelings and I can freely talk to any staff member about anything going on in my mind and they are always there to listen. It’s definitely one of my main safe spaces and I love being part of such a brilliant place. I wouldn’t have achieved so many things if it wasn’t for them.