Gorse Hill Studios hosted a first ever ‘Disability Pride Month’ celebrating achievements of young people in Trafford

In July Gorse Hill Studios in Stretford hosted their first ever Disability Pride Month Celebration to share the achievements of the Disabled young people and community in Trafford.

There was a huge variety of performances -singing and dancing, rapping and poetry, a Zumba workshop and a DJ set from the young people- showcasing their talents and passions.

There were workshops from Billy and Andy’s Music School- where instruments are taken apart and adapted to make them more accessible and everyday objects are transformed into sound machines.

The community made lyrics and played instruments together, creating an incredible vibe throughout the building! There was face painting and a hot dog stall ran by volunteers from Gorse Hill Studios.

Katie Mason – Inclusion and Disability Co-Ordinator said:

“We have an amazing Disabled community here at Gorse Hill Studios, young people have been coming to different projects here for many years, experimenting and developing skills in music and arts. We wanted to celebrate that, and to offer a place for the young people to reflect on the community they have built and be proud of what is theirs and what makes them the people that they are. This is the first of many!”

The Mayor of Trafford and Trafford Labour Councillor for Broadheath ward Amy Whyte attended the event and presented awards to the young people, She mentioned how vibrant the disabled community is in Trafford and was honoured to have been chosen to present the awards.

The categories were chosen by the groups and awards were designed for each individual participant – ‘Kindest Friend’, ‘Best Beatboxer’, ‘Tastiest Toast Maker’, ‘Most detailed Anime Illustrator’ and more.

The whole event was compered by one of our young people who had the audience in tears of laughter , bringing the day to a close he said

“Thank you to everyone for making Gorse Hill Studios and our community so special, because we are about support, being open to our differences and looking after each other. Oh, and we also know how to host a party!”