Summer 2026 , Not My Label Youth Hub’s young people enjoyed four weeks packed with adventure, learning and new experiences. Discovering new interests and building confidence along the way, every trip offered opportunities to grow, connect and create lasting memories.
Beginning with outdoor adventures at Kew Gardens and an Epping Forest bike ride, where young people enjoyed being in nature. For one participant, it was an especially proud moment as they rode a bike for the very first time!
Visits to the Science Museum’s Power Up gaming exhibition and the Barbican’s thought-provoking In Other Worlds exhibition, combined youth-led interests with cultural learning, sparking important conversations about the past and future. Through these conversations new friendships blossomed within the group.
To round off the summer, eight young people embarked on a unique residential adventure aboard the Angel 2 narrowboat. Over the course of the trip, they learned how to operate canal locks, steer the boat and even kayak along London’s waterways. Alongside the practical skills, they shared meals, played games and created memories that will stay with them for years to come. Special thanks go to Lindsey Hood and the Angel 2 team for helping make this incredible experience possible.
The impact of the summer was clear in the reflections shared by participants:
“This Summer I learned that I should be confident and fearless and have fun.”
“I learned that I’m better socially then I give myself credit for – I made a new friend.”
“At the end I felt really sad to leave the boat the trip went really well I was glad I came.”
Through new experiences, new friendships and challenges, this summer gave young people the chance to step outside their comfort zone, build confidence and discover capabilities they didn’t know they had.
