Breaking the Class Ceiling: Kudei’s "My Maiden Speech" at Parliament

We were thrilled to partner with Speakers Trust last year on their incredible My Maiden Speech programme. This collaboration was particularly special as we worked alongside Kudei, a talented alumni mentee from our community, to amplify youth voices where they matter most.

The My Maiden Speech initiative provides young people with a high-profile platform to advocate for the issues they care about. The journey includes:

• Expert Coaching: Participants receive professional training on speechwriting and public speaking.

• Confidence Building: Coaches help young leaders refine their delivery and message.

• The Ultimate Stage: The programme culminates in participants delivering their speeches at the Houses of Parliament.

It was a proud moment for our team to watch Kudei take the stage. She used her platform to champion a cause close to our hearts: creating an open and accessible creative industry.

Kudei’s speech highlighted the urgent need to break the "class ceiling" and showcased the immense talent of young creatives who are often overlooked. By sharing her story at Westminster, she didn't just speak for herself, she spoke for an entire generation of underrepresented talent.

Thank you to Speakers Trust for including Kudei in this opportunity, the Westminster Foundation for funding this initiative, and congratulations to all our charity partners at Fivefields on your participation.