Let’s Clock It – East London Youth Skillathon

Hey! If you're 18–25 year olds, living, working or studying in East London, how about a day of honest conversations, practical workshops and meeting people who actually get what it’s like trying to build a future here.

This isn’t a careers fair. It’s a safe and fun space for young people from Tower Hamlets, Barking & Dagenham, Hackney, Havering, Newham, Redbridge and Waltham Forest to:

· talk about work, confidence and “what’s next”

· meet organisations who genuinely care about East London talent

· build skills you can use straight away

· get inspired by people who’ve carved their own paths

· explore new ideas, opportunities and creative ways to stand out

We’re flipping the script on the usual “young people need fixing” narrative. East London already has talent. We’re here to help you show it, grow it and own it.

Across the day, you’ll meet people from :

· creative industries

· enterprise + entrepreneurship

· professional services

· healthcare

· technology,

· the public sector, community and charities.

They are a mix of large and small organisations from or linked to East London.

You’ll get to ask questions, share your ideas and hear stories from people who’ve built careers in East London and beyond.

The Skillathon isn’t just about getting advice. It’s about learning from young people too. We want to hear from you. It's important we have your voice, ideas and perspective because it makes our community stronger.

Anddddd Patrick Vernon OBE is joining us as keynote speaker. He's an East London legend.

We’re producing a free creative publication in July to showcase:

· East London talent

· local organisations

· youth voices

· stories, ideas and experiences

You’ll be able to contribute, whether that’s

• writing,
• art,
• photography,
• ideas or
• reflections from the day.

It’s a great way to show what makes you stand out.

Date: 9 June 2026 Time: 9:00 – 17:00 Location: QMUL Mile End Campus - Mason LT (Bancroft building) Cost: Free (but spaces are limited)

We may have a photographer capturing the day. If you’d prefer not to be photographed, you can opt out.

Anyone aged 18–25 who:

· lives, works or studies in Tower Hamlets, Barking & Dagenham, Hackney, Havering, Newham, Redbridge and Waltham Forest

· wants to build confidence, skills or direction

· is figuring out next steps

· wants to meet people and organisations who actually care

· loves creativity, community or new ideas

We’re partnering with Queen Mary University but it’s open to anyone at any stage: in school, college, uni (QMUL or any uni), doing an apprenticeship, working, job‑seeking, freelancing or figuring things out.

To help everyone feel safe, supported, and ready to grow, we invite all participants to embody these learning‑centred values:

• Be Respectful - Honour each other’s boundaries, perspectives, and presence so everyone can learn confidently.
• Be Open‑Minded - Welcome new ideas, approaches, and viewpoints; learning expands when we do.
• Be Engaging - Share your stories, tips, and thoughts, and listen actively to others’ experiences.
• Be Kind - Offer encouragement, patience, and warmth; learning is easier when we feel supported.
• Be Curious - Let questions guide you; notice details you might usually overlook.
• Be Creative - Experiment, play, and explore ideas freely; creativity is a powerful learning tool.
• Be Present - Put down your phone (unless it’s part of the activity!) and tune into the moment so you can absorb more.
• Be Inspired - Let the people, conversations, and activities around you open up new ways of understanding.

If you’ve read this far… skibidi, you’re basically coming.

Seriously tho, because East London is full of talent and you are awesome. This is your space to explore ideas and connect with people who want to see you win.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Queen Mary University of London, 327 Mile End Road, London, United Kingdom

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.

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