Abena Oppong-Asare, MP for Erith and Thamesmead, welcomed local young people to the fifth edition of her Campaign Summer School this July.
The three-day programme, held from Tuesday 21 to Thursday 23 July at London South East Colleges’ Greenwich Campus in Plumstead, was designed to empower young people to participate in politics, develop practical campaigning skills and make their voices heard.
First launched in 2021 during the height of the pandemic, the Campaign Summer School has now been held five times, pausing only in 2024 because of the General Election. The programme gives local students hands-on insight into how positive change happens and helps them build the skills, knowledge and confidence to make a difference in their communities.
This year’s programme brought together expert speakers from politics, Parliament, the media, business and local government.
Sessions included:
• “How Parliament and Your Democracy Works”, led by Damien Arness-Dalton from the UK Parliament’s Education and Engagement Outreach Team
• “Trailblazer in the Corporate World”, with BBC’s The Apprentice star Chisola Chitambala
• “From Petition to National Campaign”, with tampon tax campaigners Laura Coryton MBE and Rima Amin
• “Local Government and Community Leadership”, with Councillor Anthony Okereke, Leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, and Martin Angus, Political Adviser at the Local Government Association
• “How to Write a Press Release”, with Paul Richards, writer, broadcaster and former government special adviser
• “The Role of Media and How to get started in Journalism”, with Aletha Adu, political correspondent at The Guardian
Students also heard from strategy consultant John Lehal about careers in public affairs and politics, and from Bashir Ibrahim about his role as a senior adviser to the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan.
Domino’s in Thamesmead kindly provided pizzas as a welcome treat for students between sessions.
The Summer School was also made possible by the generous hospitality of London South East Colleges.
Following the programme, Abena Oppong-Asare MP is expanding her LinkedIn network to bring together students, speakers and members of her wider professional network. The shared space will allow participants to continue exchanging ideas, sharing opportunities and supporting campaigns that drive positive change in the community.
Abena Oppong-Asare MP said:
“It was a privilege to welcome another inspiring group of young people to my fifth Campaign Summer School in Erith and Thamesmead.
“Since launching the programme, I have been continually impressed by the talent, ambition and determination of the young people who take part. It was wonderful to bring students, speakers and partners together again for three days of learning, discussion and practical experience.
“This year’s students brought energy, curiosity and thoughtful ideas to every session. I hope they leave feeling more confident about using their voices, taking action in their communities and pursuing their ambitions.
“I am incredibly proud of what the programme has achieved across its five editions. My sincere thanks go to every student, speaker, sponsor and partner who helped make this year’s Summer School such a success. I am already looking forward to welcoming the next generation of young changemakers.”
Dr Sam Parrett CBE, Group CEO at London South East Colleges (LSEC) said:
“We were delighted to welcome Abena’s Campaign Summer School back to our Greenwich Campus for another inspiring year.
“Creating opportunities for local young people to develop their confidence, make their voices heard and pursue their ambitions is at the heart of our civic mission as an education group.”
Domino’s Pizza Franchise added:
“We’re proud to support Abena Oppong-Asare’s Campaign Summer School and help bring local young people together for an event focused on confidence, leadership and making a positive difference in their community.
“Supporting the communities our stores serve is important to us, and we’re delighted to provide lunch for the students taking part. We hope everyone involved had an inspiring and enjoyable few days.”
Abena Oppong-Asare MP looks forward to welcoming even more young changemakers to next year’s Campaign Summer School as she continues her work to build a more engaged, informed and empowered generation.
