Aspire Ryde

Aspire Ryde aims to create a thriving, inclusive community where everyone has the opportunity to live well, regardless of their circumstances. The organisation has the goal of transforming lives and spaces, and reducing poverty by providing essential support and opportunities for personal growth. 

Aspire Ryde received funding from the Hays Travel Foundation to fund the Harmony in Music project which was launched with the vision to provide disadvantaged young people the chance to express themselves and create positive change through music and creative arts. The project uses music, photography, dance and crafts to engage young people in powerful creative processes that allows them to explore their identity, whilst also equipping them with life skills and confidence.

Through the funding, participants have been able to attend weekly and creative workshops which have included the likes of songwriting and lyric development, music production and recording, digital media and video creation as well as crafting and creative storytelling. 

Harmony in Music has already been very successful so far and has engaged over 40 young people aged 11-18, with 82% of participants reporting increased confidence and self-expression, allowing them to comfortably share their work.

Over the next 12 months, Aspire Ryde aims to reach a goal of 200 young people through the Harmony in Music project which will create a lasting impact not only on the participants but also within the wider community.