The Benched Collective: Unleashing Potential Through Creativity, Sport & Youth Voice

Now in its second year, The Benched Collective is already making a lasting difference. Funded by The National Lottery and led by Ape Media, this two-year initiative is opening doors for young people aged 14–21 in Edmonton—especially those from Black, Asian, Eastern European, and Gypsy/Roma backgrounds.

With over 150 young people engaged so far, the project offers hands-on access to the creative industries, professional football pathways, and transformative performance spaces—all while building a stronger youth voice and safer community.

Three Strands, One Shared Mission

🎧 Media, Music & Podcasting

Led by DJMC Academy and supported Ape Media

Together, Ape Media and DJMC Academy have created a vibrant, youth-led studio space that brings together music, broadcasting, and creative storytelling.

What’s happening:

• Weekly media sessions have supported over 47 young people
• Participants have created original podcast episodes, film-inspired music tracks, jingles, and sound design
• A major showcase took place at Picturehouse Greenwich, where young people presented live podcasts and performances to an invited audience
• DJMC has trained young DJs, supported live events, and developed ambassadors from the programme—like “T1,” who now co-hosts events, sets up equipment, and mentors peers

🎙️ Coming in 2025

Ape Media is working to secure a DAB Ofcom radio license, launching a youth-run podcast facility and commercial radio station to create industry-standard experiences and open pathways into employment and creative entrepreneurship for the DJMC Academy & Emek Theatre young people .

⚽ Football Pathways & Personal Growth

Led by Whitestar Academy FC

Football is more than a game—it’s a career path, a discipline, and a support system.

Whitestar Academy FC is delivering:

• Regular coaching for both boys and girls
• Support into professional football club academies
• Guidance toward coaching qualifications and scholarships
• Life-changing moments—like the participant now trialling with Norwich FC

🎭 Performance & Youth Theatre

Led by Emek Theatre

Through the Streets of N18 youth theatre strand, Emek Theatre has empowered over 100 young people to share their stories and challenge stereotypes.

Highlights include:

• The RenkliStage bilingual performance—a bold, emotional exploration of identity, prejudice, and celebration
• Youth co-directing, writing, and performing on stage
• Generational moments—like a 70-year-old and 17-year-old dancing together, showing the healing power of performance

These projects help young people speak their truths, build confidence, and reclaim space in their communities.

Year 2 Focus: Building a Formal Youth Voice

While young people have helped shape the project from the start, Year 2 is about formalising that voice.

• Each strand—Media (DJMC), Football (Whitestar), Theatre (Emek)—will support the creation of a youth leadership group
• These youth reps will come together to co-decide the direction of Year 3
• They’ll co-produce a mini-festival of celebration and peer talks, sharing what it means to grow up in N18

This is more than consultation—it’s about giving young people the keys to the project’s future.

What’s Next for 2025

• Launch of a youth-run radio station
• National release of youth-led documentary content
• A new N18 youth music and performance event
• More academy trials, coaching certifications, and professional mentorship
• Peer-led talks and mini-celebrations focused on identity, growth, and creative expression

The Benched Collective is bold, creative, and youth-powered.

Whether on the mic, on the pitch, or on stage—young people are finding their voice, shaping their future, and proving what’s possible.

Want to collaborate, refer a young person, or get involved?

Contact: Info@ape-media.com

The project is proudly managed by Ape Media LTD.