Expression is a youth community group that meets weekly with about 40-60 people aged 13-19 in Harrow. It aims to encourage and inspire young people through sports, social time, food and life skills discussions. One-to-one mentoring is offered to young people at Expression for further support.

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Expression runs from 5.30 – 8pm every Wednesday evening at Holy Trinity church in Wealdstone and at Rayners Lane Estate 6-8:30pm every Friday night. It is the time in the week that young people in Harrow from all the different projects Ignite runs come together to be part of the wider community of Ignite. The evening begins with sport and social time, which aims to break down barriers between different cultural groups of young people and encourage them to interact with each other.

Sports can range from basketball and football to dodge ball and tag (with a twist). Other activities might include games consoles such as the Nintendo Wii or Xbox, icebreaker games and listening to music on the loud speakers. Some people might even have a little boogy.

Volunteers come in to cook a hot, healthy meal for all the young people who come to Expression.

This aims to challenge the fast food lifestyle of youth culture and encourage healthy eating. Young people are also encouraged to take on responsibility by washing their own plates and cups and showing politeness and gratitude to volunteers.

The life skills section of the evening aims to encourage positive life choices and inspire young people to reach for their potential.

Discussions are lead by youth workers, peer leaders and volunteers. Topics discussed can range from ‘what it means to be part of a community’ and ‘sex and relationships’ to ‘where do you want to be in 5yrs time and how can you get there’ etc. Life skills sessions allow young people to be able to express their own opinions and be challenged in a positive atmosphere.