Discover You

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Discover You (TEENS EVENT)

InterContinental London - The O2, 1 Waterview Drive, Greenwich Peninsula SE10 0TW

“I have come home motivated and realised I'm not alone -best feeling ever!”


Fifty young people, along with their friends and families, came together, at the Intercontinental Hotel O2, for a day of self-discovery, to be inspired and to begin to think more positively about their next steps, whatever these may be. 
Our host for the day was the wonderful Mikhaila, who has been supported by Teens Unite throughout her own cancer journey and now acts as one of our wonderful Teen Ambassadors. 
Throughout the day, we heard from three inspiring speakers. Dr Anisha, one of our amazing trustees and a GP, kicked off the day speaking to the beneficiaries about returning to work or education after a diagnosis and dealing with anxieties surrounding ‘Life After Cancer’. Next, was Chris Lambert-Gorwyn is a health professional and a motivational speaker, inspiring audiences across the world – he had the audience engaged and committing to forgetting the snooze button, and getting up with positivity for the day ahead. Finally, we heard from Cancer Survivor and Tik-Tok Star, Shell Rowe. Shell powerfully told the audience of her story, her personal journey of cancer and the comfort that she has sought in speaking out and connecting with others within the cancer community.  
The young people also participated in two breakout sessions each. These included: Skincare, Improvisation, Cupcake Decorating, Fitness and Nutrition, Taboo Topics, Positive Thinking and Yoga. These sessions were selected by the young people prior to their arrival based upon their own interests and offered opportunities to relax, connect with others in a similar situation, and gain new knowledge. 


A highlight of the day was the Tik-Tok Energiser activity which saw everyone participate in the biggest Tik-Tok that Teens Unite has ever created! Everyone got involved, showed off their bet moves, and most importantly had a laugh with one another. Watch this space, we’re definitely set to go viral! You can check it out @TeensUnite on Tik-Tok. 


Some of our amazing Teen Ambassadors also got involved with the day, sitting on our ‘Teens Panel’ The panel was made up of Mikhaila, Sarah, James and Ciara, all of whom have been supported by Teens Unite throughout their own cancer journey.  Rian Harvey, founder of The L Card, hosted the panel and attendees had the opportunity to ask the panel questions about their own diagnosis, and for advice on a range of different topics from friendships to careers. 


“It felt good to listen to the Teens Panel answer questions people had. I think it helped hearing other people’s opinions and perspectives. They were very positive even if they were talking about things which are usually viewed as negative. It gave me hope for the future.”


Rian ended the day, encouraging the young people to reflect on all that they had achieved, both on that day and throughout their journey. He inspired the audience telling them of his own diagnosis and the ways in which sharing his thoughts and feelings has helped his mental wellbeing. Rian encouraged the young people to take some time out upon their return home, and write a short letter to themselves speaking to all that they achieved and where they are now compared to where they may have been before. It was the perfect end to an incredible day.


An amazing day was had by all and we are so grateful to everyone who attended for being so open and vulnerable with one another. The positivity and buzz of the day was felt throughout. 
This event wouldn’t have been possible without the generosity and kindness of many individuals. Firstly our amazing host, Mikhaila, and our speakers, Dr Anisha, Chris Lambert Gorwyn, Shell Rowe, and Rian Harvey. Also, our taster session hosts : Tom Slabber, Look Good Feel Better, Jordan Stanford, Ryan Collard from ‘Cancer Lads’, Hoopla, and of course our Teen Ambassadors Panel. We also cannot thank Kate and Del Goodchild enough for their hand in photographing the day, capturing some unforgettable memories. 


Lastly, we would like to extend a tremendous thanks to the team at the Intercontinental Hotel at the O2 who truly made this event amazing. 


Thank you to all of the young people who attended that made the journey to London and really threw themselves into the day.We can’t wait to do it all again next year!

By attending this event, everyone was able to : 

  • Think positively about life with and beyond their illness 
  • Set realistic goals to increase their motivation 
  • Develop skills such as team work, public speaking and active listening 
  • Gain an insight into a diverse range of businesses and experiencing the working world 
  • Rebuild their confidence and motivation to return to education or employment and plan for a future beyond cancer
  • Identify and express feelings through creativity; improving physical, mental and emotional well-being
  • Reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness 
  • Gain a sense of achievement, improving self-confidence & self-esteem
 

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