SOMERSET based charity Sound Vision held a successful launch event for a new show designed to highlight the skills and confidence young people gain through its learning programmes.

The event, which took place at The Loft Lounge and Bar in Street on Monday, December 2, was sponsored by the venue and provided an inspiring platform for young performers to showcase their talents.

The evening was put together following an invitation from the Glastonbury and Street Chamber of Commerce to develop the charity’s work in the area. The show featured musical performances and on-stage conversations and interviews.

The participants, most of who are school age, had the opportunity not only to showcase their performing talents and confidence but also to discuss their experiences and personal growth through the programme.

Sound Vision is a charity rooted in the radio industry. It was developed by broadcaster Dom Chambers when he realised that the radio training he was giving school students at Somer Valley FM, in Midsomer Norton, was having wider impacts on their wellbeing and life opportunities than just getting them into a community radio schedule.

A highlight of the evening was when Year 11 student Alice Rice interviewed Rob Beckley, the High Sheriff of Somerset. She asked about the importance of his role for young people, to which Rob responded that it was vital to highlight youth talent and help them fulfil their potential. When Alice asked if he had ever used his sword, he jokingly replied, “only at making poor attempts to cut a cake.”

Local singer-songwriter Rosie Smith shared her thoughts on why she was excited to be involved. She said: “The reason I wanted to be a part of the Sound Vision evening at The Loft was because it's such a brilliant charity. Sound Vision brings people from all different backgrounds, including both neurotypical and neurodivergent individuals.”

Simon Parkin, a resident of Street and BBC Somerset morning show host, attended the event having previously interviewed two of the participants, Alice and Clara, along with the charity's founder Dom Chambers, on his show the previous week.

When the floor opened up for questions, Simon expressed a keen interest in understanding how Sound Vision’s work would impact the local community. Dom explained that the charity planned to replicate the successful model that Somer Valley FM, in Midsomer Norton, used by getting involved with local schools.

Sound Vision’s Showcase was held before an invited audience of 50 from across local educational, community, media and business networks. Chair of the Glastonbury and Street Chambers of Commerce Laura Wolfers welcomed everyone at the start of the evening.

Later Deputy Lieutenant Robert Drewett, representing the Lord Lieutenant of Somerset, addressed the audience with a speech that highlighted the impressive self-confidence of the young participants.

The evening marked a significant milestone for Sound Vision CIO, as it continues to inspire and support young people in their journeys toward self-confidence and achievement.

To find out more about Sound Vision head to https://soundvision.charit