Do you have an inspiring story about success to share from the past year? Have you overcome a challenge? Have you struggled with your mental health?
Your responses will help inspire and inform others and it’s your chance to be heard by the IMO community.
Have you achieved something you are proud of/overcome a challenge during the pandemic? This can be something personal to you and no challenge is too small. We would love to hear any ‘success story’.
What has affected your mental health, is there something in particular you have struggled with during the pandemic? Let us know what you’ve found hard over this period, we really value your honesty and your confidence to share your story will resonate with others.
Send your 150 word response or short video to either or both of our questions to [email protected]. We will be in contact to feature your experience on IMO and you will receive an IMO goodie bag including a 1 year Tastecard for sharing your story. Some of your responses around mental health may also be chosen to be part of Be Inspired 2021.
Be Inspired is a free annual event for care experienced people which includes inspirational talks, performances and workshops. Whether you want to share your stories or not, you can sign up to the event for an empowering and entertaining virtual experience.
This year’s event is taking place online on 30 July 2021 and will explore the themes of success and mental health and has a great line-up of guests. The Keynote Speaker is TV comedian, Judi Love. Judi has appeared on multiple TV shows including Pranksterz, The Last Leg, The Graham Norton Show, Loose Women and Celebrity Masterchef 2020 and is a stand-up comedian and OK magazine columnist. The event also features Mental Health and Wellbeing Coach Penny Jarrett and exclusive performances by Luke Burr, Poetess Jess & Ric Flo.
Be Inspired was founded by IMO contributor, Ashley Jean-Baptiste, a care leaver, Cambridge University graduate, X-Factor finalist, documentary maker and BBC reporter.
Ashley shared why he created the event,
‘I have always had my mind set on creating something for young people with similar stories to my own that would help them believe in themselves, see a better future, and find out about all the opportunities out there. Opportunities that are there for anyone – regardless of background.’
When IMO launched Ashley spoke about his past and how being in care didn’t stop him achieving, and why he thinks it’s important that more people like him are in the media and bringing in fresh ideas.
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