Event at the Unity Centre in Church Road, took place to counter negative stereotypes of youths

More than 200 people packed into a community centre in Harlesden to watch a talent show organised by youngsters from across the borough.

Fifteen young singers, rappers, spoken word artists and poets took to the stage at Unity Centre, in Church Road, on Saturday, where they showed off their talent to counter negative stereotypes of young people.

Cllr Michael Adeyeye, mayor of Brent, watched the show called Undiluted Talent, which was organised by 20 young people from Addaction’s youth committee, led by Waneta Newell, 17, and Devante Jackson, 18.

Waneta said: “The event went better than expected. It attracted a huge turnout considering it was our first event.

“It was about bringing the community together. Everyone has a talent if you look hard enough.

“It could be music, poetry, singing or rapping. The main thing I’ve learned is that anything is achievable.”

Devante added: “The event was highly motivational. It showcased young talent aged 25 and under from different communities around Brent.

“The project was a great learning opportunity for me as I have always wanted to get into event management. People say that the youth isn’t doing much, but we are making a difference.”

Davis J Williams, Youth Coordinator at Addaction who advised the youngsters how to put on the show, said: “It was good for the young people to have the chance to develop the skills to run their own event as it could lead to a career. It would be good for them to have an annual event to promote themselves locally.”

Undiluted Talent was supported by Harlesden councillors through Brent Council Ward Working and Fair Share Brent.