Under the theme “Together We Grow – A Greener Future,” our incredible mentees, poured out their creativity, passion and dedication into months of learning, growing and creating, celebrating ALL body types and backgrounds. They explored how Carnival, at its core, is about visibility, freedom, joy and radical self-expression.

With a focus on sustainability, they delved into how to create beauty while respecting the planet – using recyclable materials, upcycling and thinking about what it means to create not just for a moment, but for a movement.

Their creations symbolised peace, growth and unity, reflecting not only environmental sustainability, but emotional sustainability too: the importance of nurturing one another, building lasting connections and strengthening our community ties.

In line with the Borough Manifesto – “One Borough, One Community. No-one left behind,” this programme embodied the spirit of inclusion. Our mentees represented the vibrant diversity of Barking & Dagenham across ages, abilities and cultural backgrounds.

And let’s talk about that finale… they stepped out looking ABSOLUTELY STUNNING. The crowd felt it. The energy was unmatched. They didn’t just participate… they shone.

To our mentees, we see you. We are SO proud of you.

Thank you for showing us what it means to grow together.