Young & Talented 20th Anniversary Gala Event

Hello, I’m Suzann McLean, founder of Young and Talented School of Stage and Screen a not-for-profit social enterprise.

This year, we are celebrating 20 incredible years of nurturing and empowering young lives through the transformative power of performing arts.

Since 2004, we have supported over 5000 children across London, providing them not just with skills in acting, singing, and dancing, but also with confidence, resilience and a sense of purpose.

Our alumni have gone on to achieve incredible success on stage, (inc. West End), in the world of music, television and film, and in many other industries. Most importantly our young people carry forward the values and lessons learned here with us into all areas of their lives.

To mark this milestone, we are hosting a Gala performance and celebration on the 30th June 2024 at the iconic Hackney Empire.

However, to make this event truly accessible we need your help.

We understand that many families of talented children face financial challenges, and we want to ensure that no one misses out due to cost. That's why we have set up a GoFundMe page. Your support can help cover essential costs and ensure that as many current pupils and alumni as possible can attend to network with industry professionals, opening doors to future opportunities.

No matter the amount, every donation brings us closer to our goal.

The gala will serve as a powerful testament to the hard work, dedication and talent of young people from marginalised backgrounds. By showcasing their achievements on such a grand stage, and highlighting the success stories of our alumni, we aim to inspire and motivate the next generation of performers, showing them that with passion, perseverance and the right support, they too can achieve greatness.

The impact of this celebration goes beyond just one event; it has the potential to shape the trajectory of young lives, igniting a lifelong love for creativity and a belief in the power of their own abilities.

Join us in making this 20th-anniversary gala not just a celebration, but a beacon of hope and opportunity. We would love to see you, your family, and friends at the event. Please follow us on Instagram for updates and see how your support and contribution can make a big difference in the lives of young people in our community.

Together, let's continue to empower our youth to pursue life with passion and purpose.

Thank you for believing in the power of the arts and the full potential of every young artist.