WEST Youth Zone, a newly built vibrant youth provision in Hammersmith and Fulham, proudly hosted a special event on October 20 for local young members with additional needs. The event, which was distributed by https://pressat.co.uk/, featured a captivating performance by gifted pianist Derek Paravicini, who is blind and severely learning impaired but considered one of the greatest pianists in the world.
Paravicini’s mind-blowing concert, accompanied by special renditions of popular songs such as “We Will Rock You” by Queen, “Superstition” by Stevie Wonder, and a Punk Rock version of “Wheels on the Bus”, was followed by an interactive workshop run by Professor Adam Ockleford. Ockleford, who has dedicated over 40 years to working with young people with additional needs, led a session that aimed to create a shared language through music.
This event highlighted the values of WEST Youth Zone, which focuses on providing young people aged 8 to 19 (and up to 25 for those with additional needs) with opportunities to ignite ambition and talent despite any disadvantages they may face. Paravicini’s performance and workshop at the “Beyond” session, a dedicated inclusion session for young people with disabilities, demonstrated that talent can truly overcome barriers.
This event was the second initiative that WEST Youth Zone has brought to the community in collaboration with Myndstream, a leader in music for health and wellbeing. The first initiative was a “Positive Touch – What is it and why do we need it” training session for youth workers led by Christine Clinton. This transformative session focused on the science behind positive touch and its ability to reduce stress, improve mood, and boost overall health. Staff learned simple techniques to pass on to young people, empowering them to proactively manage their health and wellbeing.
These impactful initiatives were made possible through the partnership with Myndstream, a leader in music for health and wellbeing. WEST Youth Zone has been able to offer unique and enriching experiences that positively impact the health and wellbeing of the young people who attend. These initiatives are essential for creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all members of the community.
Elanor Gunn, CEO of WEST Youth Zone, expressed her excitement about the event, saying, “As a musician myself, I’ve seen how music can unlock young people’s talents. Derek’s performance embodies the inclusive spirit of WEST Youth Zone, showing that talent knows no limits. We’re proud to partner with Myndstream to offer our young people opportunities to connect, express themselves, and discover their own abilities.”
Founder of Myndstream, Freddie Moross, also commented on the collaboration, saying, “We’re delighted to be collaborating with WEST Youth Zone on a number of exciting music initiatives. Music is a fantastic accessible tool that can boost our physical and mental wellbeing, and we believe it’s essential to provide opportunities for young people to experience its benefits in new and engaging ways. Derek Paravicini’s extraordinary talent is an inspiration to all, and we’re honored to be part of this event.”
WEST Youth Zone, which opened in April 2024, offers state-of-the-art facilities with more than 20 exciting activities per session, led by dedicated and skilled Youth Workers. For just £5 annual membership and 50p per visit, young people in West London have access to activities such as climbing, sports, well-being, employability, and much more, all designed to help them see what they can achieve and equip them with skills, confidence, and ambition.
WEST’s “Beyond” session, running each Sunday from 10 am, offers a welcoming environment for young people with disabilities and additional needs to engage in activities alongside their families and carers. For more information about WEST Youth Zone, please visit their website at https://westyouthzone.org/.
Myndstream, part of the Cutting Edge Group, is a leader in music for health and wellbeing. With over 20 years of experience and success in influencing how people feel through music on TV, film, and in gaming, Myndstream has launched with a mission to release the power of music. Working with world-leading musicians, scientists, and wellness practitioners, Myndstream aims to understand the effect music has on us, so that the music they create has the maximum impact on the listener, whether that be to improve mood, boost productivity, or promote relaxation. Their work has transformed many spaces globally, from spas, hotels, and schools to millions of people’s daily lives through Myndstream’s music, available on all major streaming platforms. For more information about Myndstream, please visit their website at www.myndstream.com.
Distributed by https://pressat.co.uk/, this event showcased the dedication and commitment of WEST Youth Zone and Myndstream to positively impact the health and wellbeing of young people in the community. Through innovative initiatives and partnerships, they aim to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for