Anger Into Action: Announcing the Launch of Rekindle’s Youth-Focused Research

In the Spring of 2024, Rekindle began its search for six 16-24 year olds who would use self-chosen topics to lead youth-focused research to support equality-focused change in the education system. 

Today, we’re excited to officially launch their research projects with this video. Keep reading below for more about their journey.  

When our Youth Researchers first met one another last June, the conversations were filled with anger about what is broken in the education system, frustration over the personal impact of these failures, and exasperation about the wider systemic issues that contribute to unfair outcomes. Yet, despite these negative emotions, the discussions were also powerful and hopeful, revealing the incredible potential of this collective and the possibilities ahead.

A key moment was when one of our researchers, Mel, spoke with us about ‘cold anger’ – the kind of calm, focused anger that we could use to drive our direction and determination as a collective. Our conversations sparked inspiration for another researcher, Owen, who penned an amazing poem ‘Cold Fire’ that weekend. Its opening lines capture brilliantly the intention of Rekindle’s youth-led research:

“I want to spark a fire

That burns cold

And unlock the desire

In the young and the old to erase the words that bind us”

Within the current, collective feeling nationally that much is broken, this drive – to move others to be part of change – is more and more visible. From all around the nation, we are seeing more instances of anger that leads to action rather than paralysis. Increasingly, organisations and exceptional leaders who know what’s best for their communities are taking initiative, making changes that are necessary and no longer waiting for those ‘in charge’ to do so; these grassroots movements are transforming lives and inspiring others to be part of those changes or to lead their own change. Rekindle is proud to be among these – solution focused and youth-led – always. 

Pal, one of our Youth Researchers said: 

“Change-making no longer feels like something that is for those in positions of privilege or power.”

Ellie Loughnan, Rekindle Foundation Director said:

A key message we hear is that Rekindle doesn’t just ‘talk the talk’ when it comes to being youth-led – it walks the walk. With the leadership, focus and determination of these remarkable Youth-focused Researchers, we’re seeking voices not used to being heard, we’re using co-production as a powerful tool and we’re engaging in curious critical thinking as we do our best to support systemic change in education. 

If you’d like to be a part of this, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out: [email protected]